Florida State football has plenty of new pieces on its roster that it acquired via the transfer portal and high school recruiting ranks. The Seminoles went heavy in the offensive and defensive trenches for good reason. Florida State lost all five of its offensive linemen from a season ago.
Assistant coach Herb Hand has been around college football for many years, during which he has helped many Power Four programs during his coaching career. Coach Hand is entering his second season in Tallahassee. However, he will have to replace the likes of Luke Petitbon and Micah Pettus, who were stable pieces on the offensive line.
The Seminoles went to the transfer portal to get immediate help on the offensive line again. This isn't a popular choice amongst the fan base, as they want more recruits in the starting unit rather than having to rely on the portal every year.
The starting offensive line for Florida State football could be encouraging for 2026
Florida State football's social media might have given us a hint on who the starting offensive line group will be. The starting unit looks to be Xavier Chaplin, Andre Otto, Bradyn Joiner, Nate Pabst, and Chimdia Nwaiwu.
One step at a time 🦶 #NoleFamily pic.twitter.com/0kiai308zf
— FSU Football (@FSUFootball) June 4, 2026
This starting offensive line would consist of four transfers and one homegrown recruit. The only surprising aspect would be that Sandman Thompson and Paul Bowling are not starters. However, both of them are young and can use this year to learn and develop.
Florida State will have to ensure that its offensive line can be able to protect starting quarterback Ashton Daniels. The Seminoles have plenty of pressure that they will be facing in 2026, with head coach Mike Norvell firmly on the hot seat. Florida State's projected win total is 6.5, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
The fan base doesn't want to see Florida State just get to a bowl game because the reality is that if they get to 6-6, they really finished with a 4-6 record against Power Five opponents since the Seminoles play Central Arkansas and New Mexico State.
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