Five Standouts From FSU Football's Final Tour of Duty Workout
The Seminoles have officially concluded winter conditioning with the last Tour of Duty workout early Thursday morning. The month-long program is designed to challenge players' mental and physical endurance, putting their bodies to the limit over an hour.
"To see the comradery, the work, the encouragement, the challenge that guys have embraced. I mean this is one of those foundational elements of our program. We're eight weeks in and we still have some things to finish up in the weight room, but I've been really proud of our team for the investment that they've made," head coach Mike Norvell said at the conclusion of the session.
For the last day of the intense workouts, the media was able to get a glimpse at what's brewing in 2024. Whether it was seasoned veteran players or early enrollees, the Florida State Seminoles look like they are in their best shape with spring practices on the horizon. With that being said, these five players separated themselves from the pack, taking leadership and making the most of the grueling workouts.
Defensive Tackle Darrell Jackson
After sitting out his first season with the Seminoles due to transfer regulations, Jackson not only developed his skillset as a player but drastically increased his athletic ability throughout the season. At 6'5 334 lbs, Jackson is one of the largest members of the team and he looks better than he ever did in the fall. By the end of the hour, it was clear that Jackson moved his weight the best out of anyone on the team.
Cornerback Greedy Vance
It was evident from the start that the redshirt senior is a prominent leader on the team going into his final season. In addition to outperforming nearly everyone in the speed drills, Vance was quick to take to the sidelines following reps, encouraging teammates during the short breaks he had. Last season, Vance saw action in all 14 games, recording 18 tackles, one interception, and three pass breakups.
Wide Receiver Ja'Khi Douglas
After missing the first four games of the 2023 season due to injury, it seems as if Douglas has stayed on an upward climb since last October. With each rep he took, his experience showed as his execution in drills was nearly flawless. His quick feet showed as he was able to change direction and move with speed throughout the session, proving to be a reliable weapon late in games. Douglas competed alongside his brother and Indiana transfer, Jaylin Lucas, for most of the workout.
Safety Shyheim Brown
After a stellar 2023 season starting in all 14 games, there is no question that Brown's athleticism continues to improve as he showcased his agility throughout the session. In 2023, Brown had 53 tackles, one interception, two sacks, and four pass breakups and he shows no signs of slowing down with hopes to keep building upon those numbers as he enters his junior year.
Wide Reciever Malik Benson
Although this was his first season participating in Florida State's Tour of Duty, Benson looked like he'd been going through the workout for years. The former Alabama receiver not only made the drills appear effortless but did so in a manner that had Norvell, as well as strength and conditioning coach Josh Storms, appear very excited for what is in store this season with the new Seminole.
READ MORE: Observations from FSU Football's Final Tour of Duty Session of 2024
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