Florida State football is entering a pivotal offseason with a clear mission: flip the script. After a disappointing 7-17 record over the past two seasons, the Seminoles are in rebuild mode-but not just to get back to respectability. The expectation in Tallahassee is, and always has been, to contend for conference titles and make noise on the national stage.
To get there, Florida State is going to need more than just a strong recruiting class. Yes, they signed 32 players in the 2026 cycle, but with a wave of departures to the transfer portal, the ‘Noles will have to be aggressive in reloading through that same portal when it opens on January 2nd. And make no mistake-this is going to be a fast-moving process.
Behind the scenes, the Seminoles are setting the table for a strong portal push. General Manager John Garrett and Executive Director of Player Acquisitions Taylor Edwards are leading the charge, and the early signs suggest Florida State is ready to make some strategic moves. Let’s take a closer look at several names to keep an eye on as the Seminoles gear up for a crucial stretch in the transfer window.
Quarterback Watch: Colton Joseph vs. Anthony Colandrea
Florida State knows firsthand how impactful the right transfer quarterback can be. But right now, the depth chart is thin-only two scholarship quarterbacks are on the roster: Kevin Sperry and Jaden O’Neal. That makes adding another signal-caller a top priority.
Old Dominion’s Colton Joseph brings a dynamic dual-threat element. He racked up over 1,000 rushing yards in 2025, and his mobility fits seamlessly with what offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn wants to do schematically. Joseph isn’t just a runner, though-he’s shown flashes of arm talent that make him an intriguing fit.
Then there’s Anthony Colandrea, the former Virginia quarterback who most recently suited up for UNLV. He’s a more polished passer than Joseph, though not as dangerous with his legs (650 rushing yards last season).
Colandrea didn’t make a huge impact in his early years at Virginia, but he’s developed into a steady presence behind center. He’s also reportedly drawing interest from Florida, which could add a layer of urgency for the Seminoles.
It’s unlikely Florida State brings in both, but either would bolster a quarterback room in need of experience and depth.
Running Back: Peyton Lewis on the Radar
Tennessee transfer Peyton Lewis hasn’t logged major production yet, but Florida State is reportedly in the mix early. According to On3, the Seminoles are a team to watch in his recruitment.
There’s another layer here, too: Florida State is expected to hire Kam Martin as the new running backs coach (though it hasn’t been officially announced). That connection could be significant, especially if the staff isn’t fully sold on the current group of backs, which includes Ousmane Kromah, Gavin Sawchuk, and Samuel Singleton Jr.
Lewis is a high-upside player who could benefit from a fresh start and a more featured role.
Tight End: Kylan Fox a Familiar Name
If there’s one thing this coaching staff has consistently valued, it’s the tight end position. But this offseason, the room has taken some hits. Randy Pittman Jr. and Landen Thomas, two promising young tight ends, have both entered the portal.
That opens the door for a potential reunion with Kylan Fox, a former four-star prospect who originally committed to UCF. Florida State was involved in his recruitment the first time around, and with the current need at the position, he’s a name worth monitoring.
Linebacker: Tristan Exline Brings Production and Grit
One transfer already locked in for an official visit on January 2nd is Tristan Exline, a Division II standout from Texas Permian Basin. And his numbers jump off the page: 272 tackles, 39 tackles for loss, 12 sacks, three interceptions, eight pass breakups, and four forced fumbles in his career.
The linebacker room has been a question mark for Florida State, and Exline brings the kind of production and edge that could help solidify the group. He may be coming from a lower level, but the tape and the stats suggest he’s more than capable of making the leap.
Secondary Shuffle: Jaquez White and Jerome Carter in Play
The Seminoles didn’t expect to lose key pieces in the secondary, but the departure of defensive backs coach Patrick Surtain Sr. has already had ripple effects. Most notably, Ja’Bril Rawls has entered the portal, leaving a hole in a unit that was already facing questions.
Enter Jaquez White, a versatile defensive back from Troy who had a standout 2025 season: 67 tackles, three interceptions, and 11 pass deflections. He brings physicality, ball skills, and experience-exactly what Florida State needs on the back end.
There’s also Jerome Carter, a safety from Old Dominion with deep ties to the program. His father played for the Seminoles, and he hails from Lake City, Florida. Carter had six interceptions last season and could be a legacy addition who actually brings proven production to the table.
As for Earl Little Jr., his future remains up in the air. Until he makes a decision, Florida State has to operate as though another spot in the secondary could open up.
The Road Ahead
Florida State is clearly in a transitional phase, but this isn’t a full rebuild-it’s a retooling with urgency. The roster has talent, but the gaps are real, and the margin for error is slim. The upcoming transfer portal window will be critical in determining whether the Seminoles can take a step forward in 2026 or remain stuck in neutral.
With the right additions-especially at quarterback, linebacker, and in the secondary-Florida State has a chance to reshape its identity quickly. The pieces are starting to fall into place. Now it’s about execution.