Mike Norvell explains Florida State's approach to transfer portal

Florida State is quietly making a killing in the transfer portal. On a recent interview with ESPN’s Greg McElroy, head coach Mike Norvell discussed his thought process behind focusing on the transfer portal.

“Last year, I think it was 65% of the of the signees that we had were high school or high school players. But you know, the guys that we’re bringing in as transfers, they’re the right fit. They’re great players, great young men. They embrace the culture that we have, and they’re really good,” Norvell said.

They certainly are good. The Seminoles added 10 players through the portal this offseason, including eight former four-star recruits. Perhaps Florida State’s most significant addition was former Michigan State wideout Keon Coleman.

Coleman was a standout for the Spartans. The 6-foot-4 wide receiver caught 58 passes for 798 yards and seven touchdowns in 12 games last season. Players like Coleman are what will push Florida State one step closer to the elusive ACC title.

“It’s exciting for us, because everybody’s got a different path. And, ultimately, we’re looking for the best bit of guys that can come in and help our football team and I think we’ve done a really good job within our evaluation of who it is that that that kind of fits that bill,” Norvell said.

Florida State faithfuls saw a sneak peek of Norvell’s vision last season. In 2022, FSU added 14 players in the portal, but only two four-star prospects. Nonetheless, the additions provided considerable success.

The Seminoles went 10-3 last season and finished the year with a statement 35-32 win over Oklahoma in the Cheez-It Bowl. Now, Norvell is ready to kick it up a notch.

“We’re finding the right guys. They fit what we’re looking to do. They come in, they’ve been able to be great leaders for us, you know, they’ve made a tremendous impact on and off the field within our program,” Norvell said.

Norvell’s program is one most players are envious of. The 41-year-old head coach’s offenses are averaging 37.4 points per game during his seven years as a head coach, ranking as the third-highest average in the nation among head coaches.

Watch Norvell lead his offense once again as FSU kicks off its season against LSU on Sept. 3.