As anticipation builds for the 2025 college football season, Florida State head coach Mike Norvell is taking a powerful delegation of players to this year’s ACC Kickoff in Charlotte. Headlining the trip are standout athletes Tommy Castellanos (QB), Darrell Jackson Jr. (DL), Earl Little Jr. (CB), and Richie Leonard IV (OL) — a strong, balanced mix of experience, leadership, and playmaking talent.
- Tommy Castellanos, the dynamic dual-threat quarterback, brings energy and momentum to the Seminoles’ offensive vision.
- Darrell Jackson Jr., a dominant force in the trenches, will anchor the defensive line and set the tone for FSU’s physical identity.
- Earl Little Jr., rising defensive back and former Alabama transfer, has emerged as a vocal leader in the secondary.
- Richie Leonard IV, a versatile and experienced interior lineman, adds intelligence and grit to the offensive front.

Coach Norvell’s decision to bring these four athletes underscores the Seminoles’ commitment to both talent and character as the team aims to reestablish itself at the top of the ACC.
“These guys represent the heartbeat of what we’re building,” Norvell said. “They’ve earned the right to tell our story.”
The ACC Kickoff provides a national platform for FSU to reaffirm its place in the conference title conversation and to showcase the progress being made in Tallahassee — both on and off the field.
With eyes on the Seminoles after a promising 2024 campaign, this leadership group reflects Norvell’s vision of toughness, discipline, and accountability. As media day approaches, fans and analysts alike will be listening closely to see how FSU plans to contend in a stacked ACC lineup.