Florida State head football coach Mike Norvell, defensive tackle Daniel Lyons and offensive lineman Bradyn Welch-Joiner met with media members to discuss the team’s third day of preseason practice, which marked their first time practicing in shoulder pads. Here are our key takeaways from the press conference.
Mike Norvell
Competitive Atmosphere: Coach Norvell noted the heightened intensity and competitiveness of the practice as players began implementing specific techniques to create and take space. He mentioned some “heightened emotions” (aka some scrums) as the pads came on. They’ll clean that up as camp progresses, but it’s always good to see competition and emotion peaking like that. It’s what you should expect from alpha dogs and shows you have them. Sounds like there were good plays by the offense and defense in a back-and-forth kind of day.
Positional Observations
Offensive Line: He remains high on the group’s potential to create space, move people, identify things on the defense and work combinations. He noted their progress since the spring and summer and the importance of every rep as camp progresses.
Defensive Front: He praised the defensive line for their explosiveness, ability to penetrate, and commitment to playing with proper pad level and technique despite the group’s relative size.
Skill Players: He highlighted the running backs, then singled out freshman wide receiver Jasen Lopez for a strong day with multiple big plays, before noting the continued growth of the receiving corps and tight end group. He also highlighted Duce Robinson and Ja’Bril Rawls batting, which is fun to watch. Sounds like Jasen Lopez, who also came up in spring, is making a name for himself early in his career.
Individual Recognition: Freshman linebacker Izayia Williams received praise, with Norvell highlighting his speed, violence, and lack of hesitation following his recovery from an injury. Says he has a lot to learn, but Williams “looked the part” in his first day in pads. That’s good to see as he is, on paper, the most talented player in the room.
Coaching Staff: Norvell expressed confidence in his coaching staff, particularly praising the energy and competitive mentality brought by younger coaches, especially the first-year guys like Ernie Sims, Kam Martin and Nick Williams. (Sims has been on staff, but it’s his first year as the primary linebacker coach).
Brayden Welch-Joiner
Florida State offensive lineman Bradyn Welch-Joiner covered several topics regarding the team’s progress and his personal journey.
Offensive Line Chemistry: Welch-Joiner acknowledged it’s a whole new offensive line but said they are developing strong camaraderie and trust as veteran guys with experience to lean on, who are learning the playbook together. He mentioned coach Herb Hand is showing them the way and trusting what they can do. He called the group a “high-profile” offensive line. He also commented on how others in the group can make the calls, which takes some of the weight off his back.
Competition with the Defensive Line: He spoke highly of the FSU defensive line, saying all the guys on the interior are twitchy, fast and strong. He specifically praised Mandrell Desir as a high-caliber player and a future first-round draft pick, who pushes the offense to improve. That’s high praise, but in his defense, Welch-Joiner has faced defensive linemen from Alabama, Texas A&M, Notre Dame and Ohio State throughout his career. He also mentioned that he and Mandrell bring the energy in practice and frequently trash talk each other. I like to see that kind of competition in the trenches.
The Center Position: He discussed his role, explaining the nuances of making calls at the line of scrimmage based on different looks and how it varied between Auburn, Purdue and now FSU. He mentioned that coach Herb Hand gives them the blueprint but puts a lot of trust in them to go make the calls. Welch-Joiner also mentioned his ongoing competition and mentorship with teammate Sandman Thompson. He mentioned that he pushes him to be better and knows his spot is not safe unless he’s at his best.
Leadership and Team Culture: He emphasized a team environment defined by accountability and mutual respect, stating that players hold each other to high standards without ego. They know that it comes from a good place, and he wants others to hold him accountable as well. When asked about practice being heated, he mentioned that he loves it. He said they are all brothers and sometimes you’re gonna fight with your brothers. When you step on the field, it’s us vs them.
Relationship with Ashton Daniels: He discussed his positive working relationship with Ashton Daniels and how their shared communication makes them more effective on the field.
Personal Reflections: Welch-Joiner touches on his decision to add “Welch” to his name to honor his late father.
Daniel Lyons
Florida State veteran defensive lineman Daniel Lyons discussed his personal growth, leadership, and the development of the defensive line unit.
Motivation and Growth: Lyons discussed how this year feels different compared to last season when he missed significant spring training time. He emphasizes that he still has a lot to prove and wants to show he’s “like that.”
Young Teammates: He highlighted the progress of the younger players in the room, specifically naming Franklin (Whitley), Wihtlley (Cadeau), Jaemin (Pinckney), and Judah (Daniels). He expressed confidence that they are putting in the necessary work to be ready when needed.
Leadership and Team Culture: Lyons described a culture of accountability where players feel comfortable calling each other out to improve. He noted that the group has no “me guys” and emphasized that leadership involves leading by example and holding teammates accountable, and that goes for him as well.
Preparation and Standards: Lyons acknowledged that the standard at Florida State remains high, and explained that being in his second year in this defensive system allows him to play significantly faster and with more confidence.
Unit Readiness: When asked about the readiness of teammates like Juju Wynn, he affirmed that he is “ready” and the whole room is ready for the upcoming season.