FLIPPING THE NARRATIVE
Simply put, the Florida State football offense was abysmal in 2024.
One method of turning the narrative around in Tallahassee is to acquire talent in the transfer portal and high school recruiting. There has been negative energy amongst the fan base surrounding the coaching staff's ability to recruit high schoolers.
There is something that is for certain: Head football coach Mike Norvell is high on this 2025 recruiting class. The haul ranked as the 19th-best in the country, according to 247Sports Composite rankings. It might not seem like much, but the new coaching staff worked relentlessly to keep talented prospects in the class.
SORRY CORNHUSKERS...
One prospect that Norvell has been raving about during spring is true freshman tight end Chase Loftin. The Seminoles were able to land him over the home-state Nebraska Cornhuskers. I can see fans giving me the side eye when I typed that sentence and saying the following statement under their breath: "It is a tight end."
Tight ends are very useful contributors in Gus Malzahn's offense. Given that he emphasizes the inside running game and RPOs. They will be tasked with blocking effectively. While Loftin is a glorified wide receiver with excellent ability in the open field, quarterback Thomas Castellanos should have the ability to unload the football downfield when opposing defenses creep up in run support.
WILL WE SEE LOFTIN PLAY IN 2025?
I know that the Seminoles brought in former UCF transfer Randy Pittman Jr. and former Arizona State transfer Markeston Douglas, plus they still have sophomore Landen Thomas at tight end. However, Loftin should have a role on the team in 2025.
As a high school senior, Loftin recorded 57 receptions for 837 yards and 12 touchdowns. I understand that high school and college are two different atmospheres, but it gives confidence that Norvell has consistently raved about the tight end, even with the room being stacked.