Former FSU Football Star Linebacker Could Possibly Join Seminoles' Coaching Staff

Mike Norvell has made it a point to bring former Seminoles back to Tallahassee. He could soon add another to his coaching staff.

When Florida State's coaches and players hit the practice field to open spring camp on Tuesday, they were joined by a familiar face. Former star linebacker Ernie Sims walked into the practice alongside defensive tackles coach Odell Haggins. He was closely observing the defense and there's a possibility, if not an expectation, that he'll be taking on a role with the Seminoles in some fashion.

Head coach Mike Norvell wasn't able to confirm Sims's addition while speaking after practice. It wouldn't be a surprise if the program makes an announcement in the near future.

"Not officially. But we're glad to have him here, unofficially - no - he is officially here," Norvell said with a smile.

Sims is coming off a one-year stint as the linebackers coach at UCF under Gus Malzahn. He's worked at multiple colleges in the state of Florida since beginning his coaching career in 2018. Sims started off as the assistant strength and conditioning coordinator for Florida Atlantic prior to serving as the program's director of football operations the following year when the Owls went 11-3, won a conference championship, and defeated SMU in the Boca Raton Bowl.

Following Lane Kiffin's move to Ole Miss, Sims landed at USF as a defensive quality control analyst. He was promoted to linebackers coach the following season and held that role in 2022 while also serving as interim defensive coordinator. 

A local product out of North Florida Christian High School, Sims signed with Florida State as the No. 1 recruit in 2003. He remains one of the highest-ranked prep recruits ever as Sims is tied with Jadevon Clowney, Robert Nkemdiche, Rashan Gary, and Vince Young for the No. 1 all-time spot on 247Sports with a 1.0000 rating.

Sims played for the legendary Bobby Bowden at Florida State and developed into a star for the Seminoles. He played in 37 games, with 22 starts, over three seasons and totaled 200 tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 7 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 11 pass breakups, 2 interceptions, and a blocked kick. Sims was named an ESPN first-team All-American in 2004 and an ACC all-conference honorable mention in 2005.

Following his junior season, he declared early for the 2006 NFL Draft and was selected No. 9 overall by the Detroit Lions. He played eight seasons at the professional level with four different teams. Sims finished his playing career with 623 tackles, 5.5 sacks, 6 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries, and an interception.