Florida State's offensive line has been a topic of concern for years now, even stemming back to the former head coach Jimbo Fisher's days. The Seminoles have never been able to generate much success with the position group.
As it stands, the fans didn't know what they were getting from assistant Herb Hand. However, the offensive line played well in 2025, even though they had to go into the portal to grab experienced options.
Coach Hand has proven that he can make a serviceable unit for 2026. The difference is that he needs some of the homegrown talent to emerge as serious contributors. As we learned with the previous coach, Alex Atkins, they cannot rely heavily on the portal instead of developing the homegrown talent and, most importantly, playing them.
Offensive lineman Andre Otto has to play significant snaps in 2026
Florida State's coaching staff has emphasized the importance to high school recruits that they will receive playing time if they feel that the youngsters give them the best opportunity to win. However, earlier in the Norvell tenure, it seemed like they were favoring experience over talent.
Hats off to the coaching staff for seeing the issues and being willing to change the mindset for the betterment of the team. Florida State is in the starting stages of spring practices, and this is how some players emerged on the roster.
One name that players have navigated to as a leader for them is redshirt junior offensive lineman Andre Otto. The former three-star prospect from the 2023 cycle has not been a primary starter in his third year. Otto could have transferred to another program, but he elected to stick around.
The offensive line is wide open, with not having any returning starters from a year ago. Otto has been in college for three years and will be entering his fourth. If he isn't ready to compete in their eyes, then he could decide on his own. However, Otto can play tackle, guard, and center, which should make fans feel better about him being a starter since he is versatile.