FSU's 2026 RB Rotation: Balancing Bell Cow and Depth

Norvell's offense aims to maximize versatility and mismatches with a deep running back corps.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:55am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a college football running play, with the players' forms broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and shape, capturing the dynamic motion and pursuit of the action.FSU's running back rotation aims to create mismatches and keep defenses off-balance with a versatile, talent-packed backfield.Tallahassee Today

As Florida State University (FSU) looks ahead to the 2026 season, the team's running back rotation is a key focus. Head Coach Mike Norvell and Running Backs Coach Kam Martin must find the right balance between establishing a clear bell cow and leveraging the depth of talent in the backfield. With a roster full of experienced and versatile runners, FSU is poised to employ a dynamic offense that keeps defenses guessing.

Why it matters

The evolution of FSU's running back strategy reflects broader trends in college football, where teams are recognizing the value of depth and adaptability at the position. The ability to create mismatches and keep defenses off-balance is becoming increasingly important, while the enduring need for toughness and physicality remains.

The details

Running Backs Coach Kam Martin aims to cultivate a stable of running backs, each ready to contribute. However, he also acknowledges the need for a clear leader, or 'bell cow,' to anchor the group. This dilemma is compounded by FSU's talent-packed roster, which includes returning players like Ousmane Kromah and Samuel Singleton, as well as new additions like transfer Tre Wisner and FAU's Gemari Sands.

  • The spring will be a competition to determine the team's lead running back.
  • FSU plans to increase its use of 21 personnel, featuring two running backs on the field at the same time, in the 2026 season.

The players

Kam Martin

FSU's running backs coach, who aims to establish a stable of runners and find a clear bell cow leader.

Ousmane Kromah

A returning FSU running back who impressed as a freshman and brings versatility as a slot receiver.

Tre Wisner

A transfer running back from Texas with over 2,000 scrimmage yards in the past two seasons.

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What they’re saying

“The spring will be a competition. I want to see who steps up and becomes the leader.”

— Kam Martin, FSU Running Backs Coach

“Running back is a unique position. You need several players to keep them fresh and create a solid unit.”

— John Garrett, FSU General Manager

“This year, you'll see a lot of guys.”

— Kam Martin, FSU Running Backs Coach

What’s next

The coaching staff will closely monitor the running back competition during spring practice to determine the team's lead ball carrier for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

FSU's approach to the running back position reflects the evolving landscape of college football, where depth, versatility, and the ability to create mismatches are becoming increasingly valuable. The challenge for the coaching staff will be to find the right balance between a defined bell cow and a dynamic, adaptable rotation.