The Florida State Seminoles are currently navigating a tumultuous period following a disappointing 5-7 season in 2025. The departure of defensive backs coach Patrick Surtain, Sr. has unleashed a wave of uncertainty within the team, impacting both recruiting efforts and existing player commitments. This coaching change has prompted multiple defensive back recruits to reconsider their commitments, with several opting to reopen their recruitments. Additionally, existing players are entering the transfer portal, intensifying the challenges confronting the Seminoles as they aim to stabilize their secondary ahead of the offseason.
The ongoing attrition has been particularly noticeable among the defensive lineup. Edwin Joseph, a redshirt sophomore who has spent three seasons with Florida State, recently announced his intention to enter the transfer portal. Over his time with the Seminoles, Joseph accumulated impressive stats, including 51 tackles, four interceptions, seven tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. His contributions in 2025 were particularly noteworthy, as he played all 12 games, making ten starts and recording 37 tackles, along with three interceptions and five pass deflections.
Tensions within the team were visible during a heated exchange between Joseph and head coach Mike Norvell on the sidelines of a loss against Stanford, signaling potential issues within the locker room. Joseph, who was highly regarded upon entering the program as the No. 24 athlete and the No. 74 prospect in Florida by 247Sports, had shown flashes of potential, notably achieving a high grade of 84.7 in a game against Wake Forest. Despite those moments of brilliance, his overall performance averaged a 69.8 according to Pro Football Focus.
As college football continues to evolve and the transfer portal opens its doors from January 2 to January 16, Florida State is dealing with an influx of decisions regarding roster management. Several players have already announced their intention to transfer, including linebacker Jayden Parrish, defensive end Jesse Harrold, offensive lineman Mario Nash Jr., tight end Luke Douglas, and running back Jaylin Lucas, among others. The looming transfer portal period promises to be significant for the Seminoles, as the coaching staff works to address the immediate needs of the team while also focusing on future recruitment.
In addition to these personnel changes, Florida State fans are watching closely as the offseason unfolds. Not only do they hope to stabilize the current roster, but they are also eager to see how the coaching staff will address the team’s performance on the field in the upcoming season. The engagement of supporters across various platforms underscores the passionate commitment to Florida State football, reflecting both the challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead for the Seminoles in this transformative time.
