Mike Norvell explains how sports science has aided FSU player development this preseason

Following the Florida State Seminoles‘ second scrimmage of the preseason, head coach Mike Norvell complimented the work of his athletic training and sports science staff. He says he’s noticed a difference in his players’ health so far due to the focus on the “progression” in training from the spring through to the fall.

“I think the thing that’s been impressive is the lack of tissue issues,” Norvell said. “These are things the athletic training staff and Jackson Shaffer, sports science, these guys, they’ve spent a lot of time and we coordinate, you know, making sure, what is a level, and this started back in the spring. It went into the summer and all things build up. There’s a progression of it. The players believe in that progression.

“Things that have shown up injury-wise haven’t been from wear and tear, a couple things have been very tough and that’s part of the game. Some years you get out clear with injuries and some years they show up. I think our guys with their training and the way they’ve prepared, their bodies are responding very, very well.”

The Seminoles suffered one major loss early in fall camp. Former Wisconsin offensive lineman Kayden Lyles went down with an injury that will put him on the sidelines for 2022. Lyles was in the mix to start at center this season. Otherwise, the Seminoles have been relatively healthy.

Florida State OL transfer out for season

Kayden Lyles posted a statement on Twitter after Norvell broke the news last week. He vowed to help the Seminoles by using his five years of experience to bring other linemen along this year.

“I know all too well that injuries are a part of playing football at the highest level,” Lyles wrote. “Unfortunately | will not be able to be on the field this season, but I came to Florida State to make an impact on this program and that is still what I will do.

“We have a group of dedicated offensive linemen, and l am going to use the experiences I’ve gained through five years of playing college football to help them develop any way | can. Thank you to everyone for the support. I’m going to approach every day with a mindset of improvement, and I’m looking forward to seeing what this team will do this season.”

Mike Norvell spoke highly of the transfer center after practice.

“He is an incredible person who has already built strong relationships,” Norvell said. “Kayden is going to continue to be part of what we are doing.”

Lyles is no stranger to injury. He had two hip surgeries early in his career. In 2020, he missed UW’s final three games after suffering a knee injury.

The 6-foot-3, 313-pound lineman is a Madison, Wisconsin native. During his time with the Badgers, he was a Rimington Award watch list member. He played in 29 games with 15 starts. After entering the transfer portal, he announced his decision to join FSU in December.