Florida State University (FSU) will be well-represented at the 2025 Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Kickoff, with head coach Mike Norvell bringing four key players who reflect the Seminoles’ strength and versatility. Quarterback Tommy Castellanos, linebacker Darrell Jackson Jr., defensive back Earl Little Jr., and offensive lineman Richie Leonard IV will accompany Norvell at the annual media event, which serves as the unofficial start of the college football season for ACC programs.
Coach Norvell’s selections highlight a strategic blend of leadership, experience, and promise. Each of the players chosen not only figures to be instrumental in FSU’s success on the field this season but also embodies the culture Norvell has cultivated in Tallahassee—tough, competitive, and team-focused.
Tommy Castellanos, the UCF transfer who joined the Seminoles ahead of the 2024 season, is expected to play a major role at quarterback. Known for his dual-threat ability and electric playmaking skills, Castellanos brings a dynamic edge to the offense. His development has been one of the offseason’s biggest storylines, and his presence at ACC Kickoff signals FSU’s confidence in him as a potential leader under center.
On the defensive side, Darrell Jackson Jr. brings size, experience, and a powerful presence at linebacker. After navigating eligibility issues in 2023, Jackson is set for a breakout season. A Miami transfer, his journey through adversity has made him a respected voice in the locker room. His inclusion reflects his expected impact both on and off the field as a cornerstone of FSU’s defense.
Earl Little Jr., a talented defensive back who transferred from Alabama, is another name drawing attention. A former blue-chip recruit, Little has impressed with his instincts, physicality, and coverage skills. His role in the secondary will be crucial as FSU looks to maintain its defensive dominance. Bringing him to ACC Kickoff also demonstrates Norvell’s trust in Little’s maturity and leadership potential despite his relatively recent arrival.
Rounding out the group is Richie Leonard IV, a veteran offensive lineman who transferred from Florida. Leonard brings SEC experience and leadership to a line that continues to evolve into one of the ACC’s most formidable units. His maturity, consistency, and strong work ethic make him a key figure in FSU’s offensive identity. As a spokesperson, Leonard offers thoughtful insight and represents the kind of player Norvell prizes—one who leads by example.
Together, this group exemplifies the depth and diversity of talent Norvell has assembled for the 2025 campaign. FSU enters the season with high expectations after reestablishing itself as a national contender, and the program’s presence at the ACC Kickoff underscores its leadership, unity, and competitive focus.
With Norvell at the helm and these four players taking center stage, Florida State will aim to set the tone for what promises to be another thrilling season in the ACC.
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