The Florida State Seminoles are looking to add talent to their program, and they achieved that when they got the news that three-star tight end Troy Silberzahn was committing to the university. He's a part of the 2028 class and is an in-state product.
That addition was big for two reasons. It shows that head coach Mike Norvell can, in fact, recruit within the state of Florida, but it also shows that players like the vision they are being told.
When speaking to Kolby Crawford of 247Sports, Silberzahn expressed that the coaching staff played a massive role in the decision to become a Seminole.
"Ever since I was up there at the beginning of summer, it just felt like home. I've been to plenty of other colleges in the meantime. I just like the relationship with Coach Thomsen and Coach Brady — like it was just perfect. And I fit in their play style a lot," Silberzahn told Noles247.
"They're authentic, easy to get along with. They're good at what they do. I trained with them when I was out there and everything," Silberzahn stated.
And considering there were 16 other schools interested in the tight end, these comments can't go under the radar.
Florida State's latest commitment speaks volumes about Mike Norvell and his staff
While Silberzahn still has room to grow, he believes that Florida State gives him the best combination of playing time and development.
Preston Brady is an analyst working with the offense, while Chris Thomsen is the deputy head coach/tight ends coach. Those two made it a priority to make sure Silberzahn felt comfortable. Not only did they do that, but they also spoke about how they view Silberzahn being used mostly in the slot.
While the three-star tight end made sure to highlight those conversations, Norvell still had to have his hand in the pot. He's the head coach of this program, so he, of course, had to pitch Silberzahn a plan that he felt confident in.
Even though Norvell is seemingly on the hot seat going into 2026, he isn't letting that stop him from crafting future plans. He and his staff are taking things personally and are showing they want the best for any recruit that steps foot in their program. Those are the things that are the difference makers when looking to get recruits to commit.
And these same feelings were felt by four-star quarterback Chandler Dyson. Even though he's still uncommitted, Dyson gave shoutouts to Norvell and the staff. He liked Norvell's ability to handle adversity while also admitting that the coaches made him very welcome during his visit.
The fact that two recruits from the 2028 class are saying similar sentiments about the coaching staff is massive. It shows they still have pull despite the narrative around them. They are creating plans for them on and off the field, while also giving their families a sense of comfort.
It's no secret Florida State still has plenty of work to do, but Silberzahn's commitment shows the culture Norvell built isn't as bad as everyone believes.
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