Mike Norvell: CJ Campbell is 'ahead of schedule' in his rehab

Injured Florida State running back CJ Campbell is on the mend, and more quickly than expected, according to head coach Mike Norvell on Tuesday. Norvell initially revealed in August that the redshirt freshman would be out for the season due to an ankle injury. However, after practice on Tuesday, he shared that Campbell’s recovery is “ahead of schedule.”

“He’s done a remarkable job, ahead of schedule in his rehab,” Norvell said after reporters spotted the young running back on the field. “He’s put in a lot of effort into controlling the things he can control and CJ, he’s a team favorite. His work ethic, his personality, and he’s a very talented young man.

“We’ll see where it goes on when he’s able to get back out there and be full-go on the field but it’s great to see him back out there at practice and start to make an impact.”

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Campbell making progress towards return to full participation

Though Campbell didn’t play in 2021, he earned the Offense Scout Team Player of the Year award last season.

Campbell, a Panama City, Florida native, signed with Florida State out of Bay High School.

Without the 5-foot-9 running back’s contribution to the position group, Norvell and the Noles moved Joshua Burrell over to the room.

Florida State’s run game this season is led by a trio of backs, starting with Treshaun Ward. Ward has 72 carries, three touchdowns and 488 yards through seven games. Trey Benson and Lawrance Toafili each have just over 50 carries with 372 and 245 yards, respectively.

The Seminoles head into Week 9 of the season with a 4-3 record. They’re coming off of a loss to Clemson but they have an opportunity to correct course versus Georgia Tech on Saturday.

“I think every time you step on the field is that chance to really put on display this team, their response, the mindset of what we’re going to take, (and) the opportunities at hand,” Norvell said. “(Georgia Tech) is very capable…But this week is still about us. It’s about our improvement in all areas.”

Kickoff on Saturday is at 12 p.m. ET and the game broadcast will be on ACC Network. After the home matchup, the Seminoles head back out for a road stretch versus Miami and No. 16 Syracuse.