FSU Football Offensive Lineman Draws More National Praise Ahead of 2026

Florida State rebuilt its offensive line through the transfer portal for the second consecutive offseason, but one newcomer continues to stand out nationally before taking his first snap in Garnet and Gold.

USA TODAY named veteran left tackle Xavier Chaplin among the ACC’s 10 most impactful transfers entering the 2026 season.

The former Auburn and Virginia Tech starter is expected to protect Ashton Daniels as the Seminoles replace all five starters from last year’s unit.

Xavier Chaplin Brings Stability to Rebuilt FSU Offensive Line

With a new-look offensive line, Florida State needed an experienced addition to provide immediate stability at the position. Chaplin checked in with 37 consecutive starts during his time with the Tigers and Hokies.

“In Chaplin, they got just that … and at one of the most important positions in the sport,” USA TODAY’s Craig Meyer wrote.

Chaplin received third-team All-America recognition in 2023 and honorable mention All-ACC recognition in 2024. He transferred to Auburn last offseason and started all 12 games at left tackle.

The 6-foot-8, 346-pound lineman will now return to the ACC for his final collegiate season. Chaplin is expected to anchor the left side of FSU’s rebuilt offensive front.

Norvell Sees ‘High Potential’ Up Front

Florida State head coach Mike Norvell watches as players put in work during practice with the first home game just a few weeks away, Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Chaplin is the most established piece in Mike Norvell's arsenal in the trenches. Although the Seminoles continued testing different combinations throughout fall camp, Norvell believes the group possesses the size and experience to create room for the offense.

“I think it’s a group that they’ve got a high potential,” Norvell said. “Guys that are capable of creating space and moving people.”

That potential will depend on how quickly the Seminoles can blend their new pieces. FSU added Chaplin, Nate Pabst, Bradyn Welch-Joiner, Chimdia Nwaiwu, and Paul Bowling through the portal, while returners André Otto and Chavez Thompson have also provided stiff competition.

Offensive line coach Herb Hand would not publicly finalize his starting five when he spoke with the media Wednesday, but was encouraged by who will be lining up on August 29.

“Nothing’s set in stone right now,” Hand said. “But I like the way that the unit’s coming together.”

Chaplin was the only Florida State addition on USA TODAY's list, and Miami led the conference with three: Darian Mensah, Cooper Barkate, and Damon Wilson II.

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