ACC Football: Every team’s most important newcomers for 2021

Dabo Swinney, Clemson football (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
Dabo Swinney, Clemson football (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
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Apr 10, 2021; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Florida State Seminoles head coach Mike Norvell reacts during the annual Garnet and Gold Spring Game at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 10, 2021; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Florida State Seminoles head coach Mike Norvell reacts during the annual Garnet and Gold Spring Game at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports

Florida State Seminoles (3-6)

In year two of the Mike Norvell experience at Florida State, the Seminoles get a full offseason. As a result, the Seminoles lose five defensive starters, including interior lineman Marvin Wilson and cornerback Asante Samuel Jr.

The Seminoles are still in search of a quarterback, which makes McKinzie Milton intriguing. However, Norvell does want to see if young prospects can challenge veterans for snaps. These three players could have an impact on the Seminoles next season.

  • DJ Williams (transfer), RB: Incumbent running back Joshua Corbin is a nice complementary piece, but Auburn transfer D.J. Williams can be a featured running back. Williams played in a rotation at Auburn; he will have every opportunity to start at Florida State.
  • McKinzie Milton (transfer), QB: The last time UCF transfer McKinzie Milton was on the field, a gruesome leg injury almost ended his career. The fact that Milton can even practice at a full go is miraculous. If Milton is 85 percent the player he was at UCF, the Seminoles could have a veteran leader to steady the offense until either Tate Rodemaker or Chuba Purdy are ready to take the helm.
  • Jermaine Johnson (transfer), OLB: Georgia transfer is the most intriguing player the Seminoles signed in the portal. Johnson is a long, athletic combo defender. Johnson can rush either standing up or with his hand in the dirt. Johnson is also athletic enough to drop in zone and cover. Johnson gives the Seminoles a legit pass rush threat they’ve missed the last couple of seasons.