Mike Norvell on FSU in the portal: 'This program's not for everyone'

Florida State isn’t the No. 4 team in On3’s Transfer Portal Team Rankings by accident. In a conversation with On3’s J.D. PicKell, FSU head coach Mike Norvell explained how he approaches the transfer portal.

“We find the right guys that fit Florida State,” Norvell said. “This program is not for everybody. We go through the process, whether it’s high school, whether it’s guys in the transfer portal, we try to be very transparent and real with what we’re looking for and try to also get an understanding of what’s important to them.

“We’ve had the success that we’ve had because we know what we’re looking for and try to be very specific in what we go after. When those guys have come here, they understand the expectation. We’ve been able to allow them to showcase all that they can bring to this program.”

Florida State has added 15 players in the transfer portal this offseason, including two four-star prospects. Transfers were key to the Seminoles’ historic success this past season.

Standout quarterback Jordan Travis began his collegiate career at Louisville. Leading wide receiver Keon Coleman started his journey at Michigan State. Top backfield option Trey Benson was once an Oregon Duck.

Norvell has built a brand in the transfer portal. He isn’t only offering on-field success, but long-term support.

“It’s special,” Norvell said. “The teammates they are, the belief and the buy-in that they have to the program — Even if they’re only here for a couple of years, they’re Seminoles for the rest of their life and that’s something that’s important to us, as well.

“It’s not just about the short term, it’s about helping set them up for the long term of what and how they’re going to be remembered.”

Mike Norvell’s biggest get in the portal this season was former Oregon State quarterback DJ Uiagalelei. The veteran QB threw for a career-high 2,638 yards along with 27 total touchdowns between the air and ground last season.

Now, he believes he’s destined to do great things at FSU.

“There’s been a lot of lessons I’ve learned through college that have been good, been bad sometimes here and there. But it’s all shaped me into the person I am today and I’m blessed to be able to go after my journey here in college, and I’m excited about my new journey here at Florida State,” Uiagalelei said.