Mike Norvell evaluates Florida State wide receiver room after first preseason scrimmage

There are plenty of talented athletes in the Florida State wide receiver room heading into 2022. From returning players such as Ontaria Wilson to transfers such as Mycah Pittman and Johnny Wilson, the Seminoles definitely don’t lack for weapons.

Now more than a week into fall camp, FSU held its first scrimmage Saturday, giving coach Mike Norvell a chance to evaluate his players. Afterward, he offered his thoughts on who stood out to him from the receivers and what he has seen from the group as a whole.

“There were some really good catches,” Norvell said. “I know Mycah Pittman had a really good catch. (Ontaria Wilson) had a couple third down big catches. Each of them had their moments. Those are ones that kind of jump out.

“We did have some missed opportunities and things we’ve gotta continue to clean up, but I like that group. I think it’s got potential. The way they’ve been showing up at practice and have continued investment in the fundamentals and technique. Guys like Johnny (Wilson) and Malik (McClain), they’ve been so consistent throughout fall camp so far and really playing at a high level. It was good just to see that whole group continue to emerge.”

The passing game was a weakness for Florida State in 2021, as it finished ninth in the ACC in air yards per game while having no wide receiver surpass the 400-yard mark. Ontaria Wilson was actually the team’s leading receiver after finishing with 23 catches for 382 yards and five touchdowns.

Although the Seminoles return five of their top six pass catchers from this past season, Norvell knew he had to bring in some more players in attempt to turn things around. He turned to the transfer portal to do it, signing five receivers. In addition to Pittman and Johnny Wilson, FSU also added Illinois receiver Deuce Spann, West Virginia receiver Winston Wright and Columbia grad transfer Mikey Roussos. Spann also received praise for his performance in Saturday’s scrimmage.

With Norvell set to enter Year 3 in Tallahassee, he’ll hope those additions can lead to his first winning season. Florida State will kick off the 2022 season on Aug. 27 against Duquesne.