Mike Norvell has proven he can win at Florida State. The 2022-23 season, when he went 23-4 and had an undefeated regular season and first ACC title since 2014, is proof. A big part of that successful stretch was the talent acquired before the 2022 season, and getting that talent to return for the 2023 season.
On Monday, ESPN analyst Bill Connelly officially released his rankings of the teams that have the most and the least returning production in 2026.
FSU chimes in at No. 48 nationally, with 57 percent of its production returning on offense AND defense. The offense ranked No. 58 and the defense ranked No. 47 last year.
A big part of the offensive struggles was due to Tommy Castellanos and the quarterback position. The turnovers were catastrophic, and the inability to get in the end zone once they entered the red zone held that offense back. The defense wasn’t great by any means, but it was hampered due to the offense turning it over so many times (19 turnovers in 12 games).
FSU is among the top half of teams nationally with returning production for 2026.
FSU will have a new quarterback running the show in 2026. The offensive line will have several new faces, but lots of production returns at the skill positions.
Most of the top talent on the defensive front, linebackers, and two starters in the secondary will return. The key will be how well the talent acquired from the transfer portal performs. FSU probably doesn't have a Keon Coleman, Braden Fiske, or Jaheim Bell joining the program from the portal.
However, the expectation isn't for FSU to compete for an ACC title in 2026(though that's the standard). Oddmakers have FSU near 6.5 wins for 2026. However, if the returning production can take another step forward and the transfer portal acquisitions can make an impact? FSU could surpass all expectations in 2026.