Previewing FSU Football's 2023 Spring Showcase: Five Impact Newcomers To Watch
The Florida State Seminoles Annual Garnet and Gold Spring Showcase is happening this weekend, offering an exclusive peek at the 'Noles' blood, sweat, and tears over the last 12 practices as they gear up for the upcoming season. It is a chance for head coach Mike Norvell to unveil the newest transfers and freshmen making a splash on the team. NoleGameday has been keeping a close eye on the football quad, and with their impressive 10-3 record last season, expectations are sky-high for what they'll achieve in 2023.
Here are some of the newcomers who have stood out this spring:
Vandrevious Jacobs, Wide Receiver
"All Day 'Dre," as some people call him, has done nothing but impress during the spring. Head coach Mike Norvell seems pleased with his performance during camp when asked about the former 4-star recruit out of Vero Beach, FL; although he is not shy about admitting that he is still raw and learning the game's speed. Jacobs is long, fast, and has a good nose for making the catch when it matters. It seems like every time I've looked in Jacobs' direction at practice, he's coming down with the ball. I would expect that to continue into the Spring Showcase.
Jacobs, along with fellow freshman and former 5-star wideout Hykeem Williams are primed to make a splash this Saturday.
Jaheim Bell, Tight End
Transferring from the South Carolina Gamecocks, Bell is another player that has flashed consistently, and his skill set makes him a Swiss Army Knife in the offense. There have been some great plays from him at multiple positions. Bell and new addition Kyle Morlock will be two to watch out of the tight end room. Expect Bell to move around all over the offense.
Darrell Jackson, Defensive Tackle
The defensive line this upcoming season is probably the deepest, aside from the running backs and wide receivers. It's returning players like defensive end Jared Verse, defensive end Patrick Payton, and defensive tackle Fabien Lovett, while players like Joshua Farmer and Darrell Jackson are getting heavily into the mix this spring.
Jackson, who transferred in from the Miami Hurricanes, was a solid addition to that group, and he has put together some dominating performances these past six weeks. Despite the talent up front, he's quickly cemented himself as one of Florida State's top options.
Fentrell Cypress II, Cornerback
Transferring in from Virginia, Cypress II is another player you can inject into the defense to immediately add an experienced veteran onto the field. He has had his moments in spring and pairs well with Azareye'h Thomas. Cypress II and freshman Quindarrius Jones have provided intriguing matchups with FSU's receiving corps. The DB room will be something to watch under new defensive backs coach Patrick Surtain Sr.
Jeremiah Byers, Offensive Lineman
Byers was one of the best linemen in the transfer portal last offseason out of UTEP and, like all of the transfers on this list, provides an immediate veteran presence to his position group. He played in 33 games with 30 starts at UTEP at right tackle and is expected to fill that hole in Florida State's rotation. Now that D'Mitri Emmanual is back in the mix the offensive line is as deep as it has been in years, and Byers' performance in the game should be something to note.
READ MORE: Florida State Lands Commitment From Hard-Hitting Linebacker
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