With the FSU Annual Garnet and Gold Spring Showcase just under a week away, Florida State fans can look forward to seeing the 14 transfers the Seminoles bring in this spring. While this event hasn't been a full scrimmage in the past, there should be plenty of opportunities to catch a glimpse of the new faces of Tribe 24.
Read more: Mike Norvell talks about FSU football's growth after impressive offensive performance
The Noles boast the fourth-largest transfer class in the country, according to 247Sports, bringing in notable talent aimed at replenishing the talent set to depart for the 2024 NFL Draft. With such an influx of talent across the board, picking just five standouts proved difficult.
Here's a rundown of five transfers to keep an eye on this weekend.
Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei
As the Seminoles look to replace Heisman finalist Jordan Travis at center, the obvious choice would be DJ Uiagalelei, a transfer from Oregon State. There is fierce competition between Uiagalelei and sophomore Brock Glenn, who has made significant strides in his game this offseason. Uiagalelei finished camp strong, putting together some impressive practices that showed off his arm strength and playmaking ability.
Uiagalelei played in 48 games between Clemson and Oregon State, starting 40 of them. He played in Clemson's 34-28 win against FSU in 2022 inside Doak Campbell Stadium, but it will be tough to wear the garnet and gold and play in front of fans. This is the first time.
Note the connections with Jaqui Douglas, Hykeem Williams, Jaylin Lucas, Lawrence Toafili, and another player on this list, Malik Benson.
Wide receiver Malik Benson
Benson is one of five Alabama transfers picked up by Florida State in the portal. FSU will be looking to replace star players Johnny Wilson and Keon Coleman. It will be difficult to replace Wilson's 6-foot-6, 231-pound frame and his 35-3/8-inch wingspan, but he has shown similar pass-catching ability to Coleman in practice and the accompanying additions has gear. He played in all 14 games for the Crimson Tide last season, catching 13 passes for 132 yards and one score.
Benson could be the answer needed to fit in with the returning roster and should have a strong performance during the showcase.
Defensive back Earl Little Jr.
Earl Little Jr. has stood out many times, especially in the press. During his two seasons at Alabama, he primarily contributed on special teams, but his tenure was marred by injuries. Little doesn't have the versatility to play nickel, corner or safety, so it will be interesting to see where he lines up, especially with former FSU defensive back Greedy Vance on the team. Dew.
He appeared in 11 games during his two seasons at Alabama, recording two tackles in Tuscaloosa's very deep defensive back room. This showcase is an opportunity for everyone to see where he fits in the system early on, as he will have a chance to play alongside Jarrian Jones and Renaldo Green, who will be drafted after their college careers. It should be.
Defensive end Marvin Jones Jr.
Jones' recruitment was a strange one, as he ultimately chose Georgia over Florida State. He was injured early in Athens, but appeared in 23 games, including one start, recording 16 tackles, 5.5 tackles for a loss, and two sacks. The Nodes will need a big showing from Jones, who is looking to fill the hole left by Jared Verse on the precipice.
Jones Jr., the son of former Seminole great Marvin Jones, has the opportunity to break into the rotation early and pair with standout Patrick Payton. “He's on track,” head coach Mike Norvell said of Jones' accelerated development throughout the spring, giving him an idea of how well Jones will perform under the lights in Tallahassee for the first time. It's going to be interesting to see.
Running back Jaylin Lucas
Jaylin Lucas, the younger brother of teammate Jaqui Douglas, brings speed to the running back room and return game. Lucas, an All-American returner from Indiana, has tremendous speed and is slippery enough to slip past tackles and into the open field. Typically, they don't do live kick returns during showcases, but it would be noteworthy to see the 5-foot-9, 175-pound speedster showcase his talent.
Honorable mention: Roydell Williams (Alabama), Jaylen Brown (LSU), TJ Furgeson (Alabama),
READ MORE: Defensive end Marvin Jones Jr. talks about first spring with FSU football
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