5 huge reasons 2024 FSU football transfer portal class brings excitement

Leadership

FSU football lost a lot of leadership from the program after this past season. Jordan Travis, Fabien Lovett, Kalen DeLoach, Akeem Dent, Malcolm Ray, and Jarrian Jones were all guys on that 2020 team that went 3-6. They lost guys like Tatum Bethune, Johnny Wilson, Trey Benson, and Jared Verse, who joined the program after the 2021 season, and were a big part of helping FSU reach the 10-win mark for the first time since the 2016 season in 2022. These were guys who had been through the fire when nobody believed in Mike Norvell or the program. However, they were also highly productive players, and nearly all made All-ACC at some point. When players have the production and the accolades, it carries weight in the locker room when they speak.

FSU couldn't replace all of that experience, but they did a great job of identifying guys who were proven winners and productive. DJ Uiagalelei has played in big-time games and won a lot as a starting quarterback. His experience should be vital in helping lead in 2024. His teammate from Oregon State, defensive end Sione Lolohei, was an All-Conference performer last year. Roydell Williams was a productive player at Alabama and knows what it takes to win. Richie Leonard IV has a ton of starting experience. Terrance Ferguson and Shawn Murphy come from Alabama and have a winning culture. Those are guys on both sides of the ball who can help lead young nucleus.