Mike Norvell raves about Kayden Lyles, how he's defining his future through injury

Florida State added some significant pieces through the NCAA transfer portal prior to the 2022 season, but one who is having a major impact for the Seminoles hasn’t even touched the field yet. That’s former Wisconsin offensive lineman Kayden Lyles, who suffered a season-ending injury in fall camp.

Coach Mike Norvell absolutely raved about the impact Lyles has had on the program with his positive approach through a trying time.

“What I love about him is he’s an aspiring coach. I knew that when he came in here and it was another reason that just drew me to him,” Norvell said. “He wants to be able to make a positive impact for others. I think everybody’s seen that, even since his injury. He’s never pulled back. He’s pushing himself. He’s trying to do everything that he can. But even when you watch him out at practice he’s talking to those young guys, trying to help with communication, trying to make sure that he can do all the things necessary.”

And Lyles has been through some hardships.

He started 16 games at Wisconsin while appearing in 34 contests before transferring. He underwent two hip surgeries in 2020 and suffered a season-ending injury in 2021 before also suffering a season-ending injury this year.

Though he’s a sixth-year senior already, Norvell hinted in fall camp the ‘Noles may try to get him to stick around for another year if they can wiggle additional eligibility out of the NCAA.

“That’s going to be something we’ll continue to evaluate,” Norvell said this week. “Kayden’s doing a really good job.”

Kayden Lyles the epitome of a bought-in teammate

Norvell raved about the former Wisconsin transfer, who has clearly had a positive influence at FSU despite not stepping between the lines on Saturdays.

There are a handful of little things Lyles has done that underscore his dedication.

“I mean there’s been times that he’s come up and sat in our meetings as a staff, just trying to absorb information,” Norvell said. “Because you’re going to face setbacks in life, but what you choose to do in those moments, that’s going to define your future. Everybody’s going to have them. If you get caught up just hanging your head and thinking about the things that have gone wrong or that maybe didn’t go how you pictured it, you’re missing out an opportunity for what it could be.”

Norvell is in his third season at Florida State.

After winning three games in 2020 and five in 2021, the Seminoles are already at seven in 2022. With room to win more. Lyles can’t help contribute in the final three games down the stretch, but he’s already done plenty.

Simply by having the right attitude and setting an example.

“I think Kayden’s been a wonderful illustration of that, and he’s definitely preparing himself for what the long-term future’s going to be because I think he’s got a chance to be a great one,” Norvell said.