Just when FSU fans thought the program was turning the corner, they got blindsided. Because Mike Norvell’s recruiting woes are far from over, and the latest miss is hard to ignore. A top-tier player, just a short drive from Tallahassee, picks another school — and it’s honestly baffling that FSU couldn’t seal the deal. We know today’s rant is all about this missed opportunity. With proximity on their side and a clear path to land this recruit, the Seminoles still came up empty. However, enter Justin Wilcox and California, swooping in to steal that major talent away, leaving fans questioning Norvell’s recruiting strategy yet again.
It’s not just about missed recruits — roster retention is becoming a serious concern for Coach Norvell. So far, OL Jaylen Early, QB Trever Jackson, and WR Jordan Scott are among the latest to enter the NCAA transfer portal. While Norvell isn’t shocked by the moves, saying, “There’s not a whole lot of surprises that happen, but there’s a whole lot of real conversations,” the reality is that these departures highlight a deeper issue. “There’s work to be done,” he admits, but that work also raises questions about his ability to keep talent on the roster. The focus is now on how Norvell handles these departures and whether he can build a team that stays intact for the long haul.
But what’s behind the missed opportunities and poor roster retention under Mike Norvell? Brian Smith shed some light on the issue on the Locked On Seminoles podcast. He explained it clearly, saying, “The Cal Bears — the ones in Northern California in the San Francisco Bay Area — Cal, the same school that out-recruited Florida State for Mike Norvell, because they literally spent more effort in South Georgia than the Florida State staff.” It’s a stark reminder of the recruiting missteps that have left FSU playing catch-up while others capitalize on the talent right under their nose.
According to Brian Smith, the California Golden Bears outworked FSU recently in recruiting a standout player from Thomasville, Georgia, a town practically a stone’s throw from Doak Campbell Stadium. However, the player in question? Cam Brooks, a defensive lineman from Thomas County Central High School, the same school that produced 1993 Heisman Trophy winner Charlie Ward. Ironically, despite Brooks being so close to FSU, it was Cal that put in the effort and sealed the deal. And now, Brooks has committed to the ACC program, leaving FSU fans shaking their heads in disbelief.
Standing at 6’3″ and 230 pounds, Cam Brooks has proven himself as a force on both sides of the ball. In his freshman year, he posted 27 tackles, 4 TFLs, and a forced fumble. By his sophomore year, Brooks earned a spot on the All-Region 1-6A First Team Defense, showing just how quickly he’s developed. A dual-sport athlete, he also dominates on the basketball court as a power forward. Losing such a talent is a major setback for Mike Norvell and FSU.
However, the intriguing part? Florida State didn’t even get an official visit, and Cam Brooks is headed to Cal. This is one of the biggest recruiting flops in recent memory. But let’s be clear, the blame doesn’t fall on the defensive staff — they’ve seen plenty of change. The real issue lies with Mike Norvell. A 2-10 season put FSU in this position, and that’s a problem that starts at the top. As Brian Smith puts it best, saying, “Two and ten — that’s a Mike Norvell problem.”
Simply, Mike Norvell shouldn’t have had to change staff mid-course. If there were any issues, those should’ve been addressed earlier, per Smith. And following that, better hires should’ve been made, both offensively and defensively. However, the retired D-line coach, Odell Haggins, isn’t to blame. He’s still a valuable part of the program and can offer support. But ultimately, this falls on Norvell. He’s never been a strong recruiter, and FSU hasn’t had a top 10 class since he arrived, per Smith. And Brian Smith points out, this is a total Mike Norvell problem.
But while the FSU head coach failed to retain key players and missed a recent opportunity, he’s not a failure in all cases. He has made important additions to his team’s dynasty.
Mike Norvell’s latest addition
FSU has officially added transfer QB Jaylen King to the roster, as announced by HC Mike Norvell on Sunday. “We’re thrilled to welcome Jaylen into our program and quarterback room,” said Norvell. Adding, “He has the size, ability, and potential we’re excited to develop in the coming years.” On top of that, after spending his first two years in college, King now has the chance to compete and grow in a talented QB room, with the option to redshirt as he continues to evolve.
Jaylen King has made an impressive mark in his first 2 collegiate seasons, playing in 19 games with 17 starts. He’s completed 223 passes for 2,759 yards and 20 TDs, while also rushing for 823 yards and 10 TDs. His rushing touchdowns ranked as the third-highest single-season total by an ETSU QB in program history, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities.
Not only this, Mike Norvell is making waves at FSU with some game-changing moves. He’s brought in Gus Malzahn as OC, adding a wealth of experience to the offense. Tony White, former Nebraska DC, now takes charge of the defense, aiming to transform it into a powerhouse. Former Seminole Jaleel McRae joins as a defensive graduate assistant, adding depth to the staff. The 2025 class is loaded with talent, including 4-star recruits Tae’shaun Gelsey, Jayvan Boggs, and Ousmane Kromah, all poised to make an immediate impact.
Now, let’s see how the team performs under Norvell’s leadership this season.
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