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Florida State has a lot of names in the tight end room, but not a lot of production to go with it. FSU will have to replace Jordan Wilson this season who played over 300 snaps last year.
Going into 2022 the name that stands out is Cam McDonald. He is an experienced veteran player and was the leading receiver at the tight end position last season. Unfortunately, Cam has been in a boot and on the sideline most of camp so far per reports. This is development that we’ll continue to monitor and hopefully he’s at least back for LSU. Without Cam in the fold, an already struggling position will be far worse off.
The tight end position has not been one to make much of an impact for FSU pretty much since Nick O’Leary left. However, when going over the numbers from Norvell’s past players, Cam is on par with the average production level Norvell usually gets from the position. Historically, Norvell’s leading tight end produces about 200-400 receiving yards per season.
Cam had 227 receiving yards in 2020 and 243 last season. Those are both in-line with what you should expect from a Norvell tight end despite being at the bottom end of the production spectrum. We do have to factor in he has been playing in a lackluster passing offense too.
I think he will put together another season with similar numbers, however, it would be nice if we could see him hit the top end of those production numbers by adding about 100-150 extra yards which is entirely possible if the passing game improves this season.
FSU does need to get more by way of blocking from the position. Wyatt Rector was the only player at the position to receive a PFF blocking grade above 60 which is considered average. Receiving production was even worse when looking down the depth chart too.
The next leading receiver that returns for 2022 besides Cam, produced only 13 yards receiving. As for who else could emerge from this group, your guess is as good as mine, but hopefully someone steps up especially if Cam is absent for part of the season.
One candidate is Markeston Douglas who’s name has been mentioned a few times throughout fall camp. He is a big-bodied tight end who could also help out with blocking.
FSU did bring in two talented freshmen in Jerrale Powers and Brian Courtney who could possibly contribute this season mostly out of necessity. Early reports are positive, but I’m not sure how much you can expect from a true freshman in year one.
The Noles need to see better play across the depth of this room behind veteran Cam McDonald. I’m just not sure if we will see that until some of the more talented young guys develop. Thanks for reading and Go Noles!
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