Mike Norvell praises DJ Uiagalelei for leadership while injured

The 2024 season has been one to forget for DJ Uiagalelei. From the Florida State’s 1-4 start to, especially, his recent injury that will sideline him in Week 6.

But Uiagalelei has still been every bit the engaged, committed player and teammate, from head coach Mike Norvell’s perspective. And he’s grateful for that as the Seminoles continue to seek answers ahead of a visit from surging Clemson.

“I thought he did a great job, even yesterday not just with the quarterbacks but I mean also with the other guys. He cares so much,” Norvell said.

Norvell continued, and recounted a moment in the facility on Wednesday morning after a staff meeting when he noticed Uiagalelei putting some extra work in.

“He was in this morning, when I went down after our staff meeting — he’s sitting in the quarterback meeting room going through just different calls, different assignments,” Norvell said. “And that’s what I love about him.”

And quarterback Brock Glenn, who will play in Uiagalelei’s absence, commended the help he’s gotten from the veteran, especially in trying to translate film study into on-field advantages in live action.

“DJ’s been awesome in the film study,” Glenn said Wednesday. “He’s been awesome. He sees the game really clear. And he’s obviously a vet. He’s been in this game for a while, so he knows what to expect, and he knows some tricks here and there to show and help speed up your mind.”

While things have been going awry on the field, Norvell knows the mindset Uiagalelei brings to the table is the kind needed if Florida State is going to right the ship. And he’s also the sort of player that Norvell wants to be around.

“And obviously he’s not going to play this week, but he’s prepared,” Norvell said. “And when you have character like that and you care and can possibly be a resource for somebody, it’s the kind of guys you want to be around.”