The Florida State Seminoles went through some turbulent times during the wavering end of former head coach Jimbo Fisher's tenure and the following coaching staff's attempt to plug holes left in the program. The Seminoles went 5-7 and 6-7 before hiring current coach Mike Norvell, and in three years they were back at the top, finishing 2023 13-1 and ACC Champions.
During those down years, former star quarterback Jordan Travis was brought on as a transfer from Louisville. He split reps with McKenzie Milton and James Blackman early in his tenure with the Seminoles. Although he flashed at times, it was never really his offense, and he wasn't able to gain much traction before Norvell fully gave him the reins in 2022. The 'Noles went 23-4 with Travis primarily under center.
Now that Travis' time in garnet and gold is over, as he looks ahead at the NFL, he reflected on what it was like working with Norvell as a mentor in an interview leading up to FSU NFL Pro Day.
"I mean I thought he was crazy as hell. That's it. That's definitely the first thought I had. But just watching how he coaches us and loves us was something so special," Travis said of Norvell. "The leader that he is, not just on the field but off the field and for his family, the father he is, and the husband he is to his wife is really special to see. And the love he has for just everyone around this town, he's so humble, and man."
Travis is coming off a tremendous year where he placed fifth in the Heisman rankings despite not finishing the season due to a devastating leg injury. He said Norvell changed his life and that he's grateful to have crossed paths with him.
"I mean he really changed my life. He showed me a lot when it comes to not only football but just how I treat people - how I do everything. So yeah, man, I'm so grateful we crossed paths."
Spring camp is in full swing for the Seminoles and the quarterback room is currently competing for who will take snaps under center this fall. FSU brought in Oregon State transfer DJ Uiagalelei and freshman Luke Kromenhoek to compete with Brock Glenn and there is little doubt Norvell will have a positive impact on the next group of quarterbacks to go through the program.
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