Mike Norvell evaluates similarities, differences as DJ Uiagalelei replaces Jordan Travis

Florida State is moving on from a quarterback in Jordan Travis that helped lead their return over the past several years, specifically the last two. Now, DJ Uiagalelei transfers in to take on that role and keep that going for the Seminoles.

Mike Norvell assessed the comparison between the two while at the desk at ACC Media Days on Monday. In his mind, he loves that they both were and are veterans that know the best and the worst. Pair that with the people and leaders they both were and he’s excited to see how Uiagalelei carries on at the position this season.

“DJ is coming in. It’s something we’re really excited about. He has experience,” said Norvell. “Much like Jordan, he has had highs and he has had the lows. I mean he has had to continue to grow throughout this process.”

“Really, he has led with his humility coming in to Florida State. He has been an incredible young man in that locker room working to prove himself by how he’s investing in others. You come out and watch practice and you can see the arm talent. You can see his size, the athletic ability – all the things that he can bring to help push an offense. But it’s what he has in his chest. It’s the relationships that he’s building,” said Norvell. “I think he’s earning respect on a daily basis not only by what he can do but who he is just as much. That was something that was one of those underlying secret sauces for Jordan Travis. He had that same type of makeup there in that locker room which you know is so very important.”

For example, Uiagalelei chose not to be with the Seminoles today in Charlotte. That was a decision in order to highlight his other teammates who are coming off the special last year for the ‘Noles.

“I mean it’s a great glimpse to the outside world to who it is that I get to coach. It was something that we presented to him that he was requested by the ACC. This is a special event. This is a special time for these guys to get to be here. DJ has been fortunate to have that experience in his background. He said to me, ‘Coach, with all due respect, I’d love for this to be an opportunity for my teammates, for them to go show the country who they are, what they’re all about,'” Norvell said. “Those guys are all-conference performers as well that have been to this program. They’ve been able to put themselves and help push this program to where it is now. Now we’re all excited about pushing to take another step.”

“I think DJ – I mentioned that he leads with that humility. I supported him in his decision,” Norvell said. “Definitely grateful for the guys that we have here and for every one of those guys that are back in Tallahassee right now.”

College football has gotten to know Uiagalelei the player over his half decade with Clemson, Oregon State, and now Florida State. He has thrown for over 8,300 yards along with 57 touchdowns and 24 interceptions on 59.1% completion overall. He’s coming off his lone year with the Beavers where he posted 2,638 passing yards with 21 scores and seven picks while completing 57.1% of his attempts.

Uiagalelei now returns to the east coast to be the Seminoles’ QB1.

Travis became a beloved player with what he accomplished by the end of his time at Florida State. The expectation for Uiagalelei is now the same and more with him taking his place.