Florida State Coach Defends Controversial QB Transfer Amid Hot Seat Rumors

Mike Norvell explains why he's excited about Auburn transfer Ashton Daniels despite concerns from Seminoles fans.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Florida State head coach Mike Norvell is defending his decision to bring in Auburn transfer Ashton Daniels as the Seminoles' new starting quarterback, despite concerns from fans about Daniels' limited experience and production. Norvell cited Daniels' playmaking ability, growth potential, and positive reviews from coaches as reasons for the high-profile addition, as the embattled coach looks to turn around a 5-7 season and save his job.

Why it matters

Florida State has struggled mightily over the past two seasons, going just 7-17 under Norvell. With 15 FBS coaches fired after the 2025 season, Norvell's job security has been a major talking point, and his decision to bring in Daniels as the new QB1 is seen as a make-or-break move that could determine his future with the program.

The details

Despite missing out on several high-profile quarterback transfers, Norvell landed Auburn's Ashton Daniels, who served primarily as a backup last season before starting the final three games. Daniels has thrown for 4,783 yards and 24 touchdowns in his career, while also rushing for 1,401 yards and 11 scores. Norvell praised Daniels' playmaking ability, experience in multiple offenses, and positive reviews from coaches as reasons for his excitement about the addition.

  • Norvell's Seminoles went 5-7 in 2025, their second straight losing season.
  • Fifteen FBS coaches were fired during or after the 2025 season, but Norvell kept his job.
  • Daniels started the final three games of the 2025 season at Auburn after primarily serving as the backup.

The players

Mike Norvell

The head football coach at Florida State University, who has a 7-17 record over the past two seasons and is facing increasing pressure to turn the program around.

Ashton Daniels

A quarterback who transferred from Auburn to Florida State for the 2026 season, after serving primarily as a backup in 2025 but starting the final three games.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Ashton has great experience. He's been a part of multiple offenses and has done a variety of different things. Last year was a learning experience for him, and getting an opportunity to redshirt. Didn't play until late in the season, due to coming in at Auburn until July.”

— Mike Norvell, Head Coach, Florida State University (On3)

“But you saw a quarterback who was a great playmaker. Was extremely productive in the handful of games he was able to play. I saw the growth in him and the belief with the full season here in front of him, full offseason. Really excited about what he brings.”

— Mike Norvell, Head Coach, Florida State University (On3)

What’s next

The Seminoles will be closely watched in the 2026 season as Norvell looks to save his job, with Daniels' performance as the new starting quarterback likely to be a key factor.

The takeaway

Norvell's decision to bring in Ashton Daniels as the Seminoles' new starting quarterback is a high-stakes gamble, as the embattled coach looks to turn around Florida State's fortunes and avoid joining the 15 FBS coaches who were fired after the 2025 season.