KJ Kirkland explains importance of getting in spring practices

It doesn’t take much to get a head start. For Florida State freshman safety KJ Kirkland, it took 15 practices earlier this year.

“Those 15 practices definitely helped a lot. I tell young recruits, if you can, definitely come in the spring because it’s a little slower. Once we get to the fall, it’s like a repetitive thing,” Kirkland said on Thursday. “You’re able to slow the game down and learn the process even better.”

Kirkland decided to forgo his final semester in high school to get an early start with the Seminoles. The decision paid off. Despite being just a three-star recruit, the No. 48 safety and No. 502 overall prospect in the Class of 2023, insiders expect Kirkland to make an impact immediately.

FSU brought in 18 freshmen this offseason, including nine four-star prospects. Nobody expected Kirkland to be the pick of the litter. Yet, he’s the top dog. Now, Kirkland is using his unexpected expertise to help his fellow first-years.

“When those guys come in late into the summer, it’s just like if they need anything, I’ve been here for a little bit. So, if they got any questions, they ask me,” Kirkland said. “They help me too if I need anything, so it’s just one big connection, and our class is going to be something special. This 2023 class, we’re all bought in together. We got real tight relationships. So, that’s going to pay off in the long run.”

Kirkland will boost an already formidable FSU secondary. The Seminoles’ defense allowed just 165.4 passing yards per game last season, good for fourth in the nation. Moreover, FSU boasted the No. 22 defensive passing efficiency in the country.

KJ Kirkland is happy to improve

Kirkland considered all of these factors when choosing the Seminoles over the likes of Florida, Kentucky and Georgia. The freshman cornerback is especially excited to work with new secondary coach Patrick Surtain Sr.

“It means a lot,” Kirkland said back in January. “Just being able to be developed by that high a mind, just having that in my corner to fall back on. Just learn different things, learn different things to look at on the field, off the field. It’s a great thing to have.

“Nothing is going to be given to me,” he said. “I know I’m going to have put in the work. I know if I put in enough work, learn the scheme, just get into the program best as I can, I feel like that could be a possibility for me, and I’m willing to take on that chance.”