Florida State football is on a mission to silence the skeptics in 2026 after closing last season with a 5-7 record. Even a victory over Alabama couldn't mask the struggles, as the Seminoles dropped seven of their last nine games.
Head coach Mike Norvell finds himself under the microscope. Despite some fans calling for his departure after a tough loss to Stanford, the administration seems to believe in his potential to steer the ship back on course-or perhaps the buyout was a bit too hefty to swallow. Regardless, at Florida State, the bar is always set at championship contention.
Norvell has been busy reshaping the roster with a mix of transfer portal talent and fresh high school recruits. While these new faces often steal the spotlight, let's not overlook the returning players who could make a significant impact.
The linebacker corps, in particular, has room for improvement, especially with a healthy Caleb LaVallee back in the mix. Last season, under defensive coordinator Tony White, the defense struggled to adapt to the new 3-3-5 scheme. After an impressive start against the Crimson Tide, they faltered against rivals like the Florida Gators, where running back Jadan Baugh ran wild for over 200 yards, exposing issues with the linebackers' downhill aggression.
With assistant coach John Papuchis moving to Missouri, Ernie Sims has taken over the linebacker unit. Sims, a former Seminole himself, commands respect and admiration from the players. He has added depth with transfers Chris Jones and Mikai Gbayor, and promising four-star recruit Izayia Williams.
However, don't forget about redshirt junior Caleb LaVallee. The former North Carolina Tar Heel made waves in his first start at the Fenway Bowl against UConn, racking up nine tackles and making his presence felt all over the field. Despite a lower-body injury that limited his 2025 season to special teams, LaVallee is now healthy and ready to compete.
With Izayia Williams sidelined by a knee injury this spring, the door is open for LaVallee, along with Blake Nichelson and Omar Graham Jr., to vie for starting roles. The competition is fierce, and the opportunity is ripe for these players to step up and help the Seminoles reclaim their status as contenders.