Welcome to The Chief Brief!

We have a packed edition for you today, filled with exciting updates and noteworthy achievements from our Seminoles. Let’s dive right in!

🏀 Jamir Watkins to Participate in 2024 Nike Basketball Academy 🏀

FSU guard Jamir Watkins, one of the top returning players for the 2024-25 season, will join elite prospects at the prestigious 2024 Nike Basketball Academy. Watkins looks forward to improving his game with insights from NBA players and coaches.

🏈 FSU's First Scrimmage: Progress and Areas for Improvement 🏈

Florida State’s first preseason scrimmage highlighted both strengths and areas needing improvement. The offense showed potential with standout performances from DJ Uiagalelei and freshman WR Elijah Moore, while the defense impressed with a disruptive front.

🏈 Five-Star Receiver Kaliq Lockett to Announce College Decision 🏈

Top receiver Kaliq Lockett from Sachse High School is set to reveal his college choice on Wednesday, narrowing down his options to Alabama, FSU, LSU, Texas, and Texas A&M. His decision is highly anticipated, with all five schools vying for his commitment.

🏈 Four-Star Edge Rusher Jarius Rodgers Talks FSU Recruitment 🏈

Jarius Rodgers, a four-star 2026 edge rusher, has been a frequent visitor at FSU and has built strong relationships with the coaching staff. He speaks highly of the program’s ability to develop players for the next level and plans to return for a game this season.

🏈 2024 Preseason Top 25 Rankings: The Race to the Expanded Playoff Begins 🏈

As the 2024 college football season kicks off, updated preseason top 25 rankings bring excitement. Ohio State leads the pack, followed by Georgia, Texas, Oregon, and Ole Miss. FSU stands strong at No. 13, aiming for a conference championship.

🌪️ Hurricane Debby Set to Impact FSU's Practice Schedule 🌪️

Hurricane Debby is projected to impact the Big Bend and Tallahassee area, prompting adjustments to FSU's practice schedule. The team remains flexible, with plans to practice in Jacksonville midweek and hold their second scrimmage on Saturday.

🏀 Jamir Watkins to Participate in 2024 Nike Basketball Academy 🏀

Florida State guard Jamir Watkins, one of the top returning players for the 2024-25 college basketball season, has been selected to participate in the prestigious 2024 Nike Basketball Academy.

Held at Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton, Ore., this four-day event features over 80 top college and high school prospects and includes appearances by notable coaches, professional players, and basketball legends.

Event Highlights:

• Founded in 2015, the Nike Basketball Academy has grown each year.

• Participants receive instruction from current NBA and college players, along with training and workout sessions.

• Former Seminole Baba Miller participated in the academy in 2023.

Watkins' Achievements:

• All-ACC Honorable Mention selection as a junior in the 2023-24 season.

• Holds a streak of 19 consecutive double-figure scoring games.

• Only player returning to the ACC who ranked in the top 20 for scoring and rebounding last season.

• Second leading returning ACC player for steals.

2023-24 Season Stats:

• Averaged a career-high 15.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, 1.9 steals, and 2.8 assists.

• Played in and started all 33 games for the Seminoles.

• Named to the Oscar Robertson National Team of the Week and ACC Player of the Week.

• MVP of the 2023 Sunshine Slam.

Read more here

🏈 FSU's First Scrimmage: Progress and Areas for Improvement 🏈

Florida State held its first scrimmage of the preseason, and while the performance wasn't spotless, there were notable takeaways on both sides of the ball.

Offensive Highlights:

• Quarterback Play: DJ Uiagalelei managed the offense well, demonstrating solid performance despite receiver drops. Luke Kromenhoek showcased his potential with a red-zone touchdown strike and a long pass to Micahi Danzy.

• Standout Players: Samuel Singleton impressed with a 20+ yard run, while Jalen Brown and Jaylin Lucas demonstrated their YAC abilities. Freshman WR Elijah Moore and TE Amaree Williams also had notable catches.

Defensive Insights:

• Defensive Front: Described as "disruptive," the defensive front made it challenging for the offense, with standout performances from Daniel Lyons, Aaron Hester, Lamont Green Jr., and Cai Bates, who recorded sacks.

• Young Talent: CB Ja'Bril Rawls and LB Blake Nichelson had strong showings, with Rawls excelling in coverage and run support, and Nichelson making multiple plays in coverage.

• Areas for Improvement: DC Adam Fuller emphasized the need to improve tackling and pass rush while commending the overall effort and execution, especially from younger players.

Coaches' Reflections:

• Mike Norvell: Pleased with the quarterbacks' performance and the defensive front's disruption. Highlighted the need for better alignment and communication, especially among younger players.

• Adam Fuller: Encouraged by the execution despite complex schemes but called for better tackling and fewer penalties.

The team will continue to refine their skills and address areas for improvement as they prepare for the upcoming season opener against Georgia Tech in Dublin.

Read more here and here

🏈 Five-Star Receiver Kaliq Lockett to Announce College Decision 🏈

Sachse (Texas) High School's five-star receiver, Kaliq Lockett, is set to reveal his college decision on Wednesday. Lockett's final choices are Alabama, Florida State, LSU, Texas, and Texas A&M.

Player Profile:

• Stats: As a junior, Lockett recorded 59 receptions for 1,299 yards and 13 touchdowns, averaging 22 yards per catch.

• Rankings: Ranked as the No. 3 receiver and No. 17 overall prospect by On3 Industry.

What Lockett is Looking For:

• Family Atmosphere: Lockett seeks a school where coaches and staff feel like an extension of his family.

• Path to the NFL: Aiming to be a top receiver and a first-round draft pick within three years.

Finalist Breakdown:

• Alabama: Impressed by Coach DeBoer’s air-raid offense and Coach Shephard’s coaching style.

• Florida State: Attracted by Coach Norvell’s consistent high energy and the team’s unity.

• LSU: Loves the food and the school’s history of producing NFL receivers, alongside the coaching staff's approach.

• Texas: Values Coach Sark’s offensive strategies and Coach Jackson’s NFL experience.

• Texas A&M: Believes in Coach Elko’s potential to elevate the program and Coach Wiggins' track record with NFL talents.

Lockett will announce his decision during a ceremony at his school, where many will eagerly watch to see where this elite pass catcher will take his talents.

Read more here

🏈 Four-Star Edge Rusher Jarius Rodgers Talks FSU Recruitment 🏈

Fleming Island (Fla.) four-star 2026 edge rusher Jarius Rodgers has made frequent visits to Florida State, attending spring practice, camping in June, and participating in the Seminole Showcase in July.

Rodgers, who received an offer from FSU in June, discussed why the Seminoles have become a significant part of his recruitment journey.

Key Highlights:

• Consistent Visits: Rodgers visited FSU for spring practice on April 11, camped on June 16, and returned for the Showcase on July 27.

• Building Relationships: He has formed strong bonds with Coach JP and Coach Haggins, who check up on him regularly. Head coach Mike Norvell has also given him personal attention and advice.

Rodgers on FSU:

• Impressed by Coaches: "They are great coaches and they have what you're looking for in a team," Rodgers said. "They're great at getting players to the next level."

• Norvell's Advice: Emphasized the importance of learning from his time at FSU and applying it on the field.

Recruitment Status:

• No Current Leaders: Rodgers has not yet named a favorite school.

• Rankings: Ranked as the No. 134 overall prospect and No. 13 edge in the 2026 class by 247Sports.com. He is the No. 20 prospect in Florida.

Multi-Sport Athlete:

• Versatility: In addition to football, Rodgers also participates in basketball and track and field.

Rodgers plans to return to FSU for a game this season as he continues to evaluate his options and build relationships with the coaching staff.

Read more here

🏈 2024 Preseason Top 25 Rankings: The Race to the Expanded Playoff Begins 🏈

The 2024 college football season is here, bringing updated preseason top 25 rankings as the expanded playoff era begins. With significant changes across the Power Five conferences and over two dozen head-coaching changes, this season promises excitement every weekend.

Top 5 Teams:

1. Ohio State Buckeyes: Garnered the most first-place votes, with expectations high for a national championship run under Ryan Day.

2. Georgia Bulldogs: The reigning champions are set to dominate with a strong roster and Kirby Smart at the helm.

3. Texas Longhorns: Entering the SEC with high hopes, led by an elite quarterback room and strong offensive line.

4. Oregon Ducks: Built on strong recruiting and transfer portal acquisitions, Oregon aims for a national championship.

5. Ole Miss Rebels: Lane Kiffin's team is poised for a playoff appearance with an elite roster and high expectations.

Notable Rankings:

• Alabama Crimson Tide: Ranked No. 6, facing a tough SEC schedule under first-year coach Kalen DeBoer.

• Florida State Seminoles: Ranked No. 13, aiming for a conference championship with a transfer-laden roster under Mike Norvell.

• Clemson Tigers: Ranked No. 14, with high hopes for a return to the playoff under Dabo Swinney.

Teams to Watch:

• Miami Hurricanes: Ranked No. 16, bolstered by significant portal additions and high expectations under Mario Cristobal.

• USC Trojans: Ranked No. 19, with a revamped defense and high hopes for success in the Big Ten.

Other Teams Receiving Votes:

• Auburn, Louisville, Kentucky, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Liberty

Read more here

🌪️ Hurricane Debby Set to Impact FSU's Practice Schedule 🌪️

Hurricane Debby has strengthened to sustained winds of 75 mph, heading towards the Big Bend, including Tallahassee. FSU, after concluding their first scrimmage and ninth preseason practice, plans to adjust their schedule based on the storm's path.

Current Plans:

• Sunday: Off day

• Monday: Practice at FSU (subject to change)

• Tuesday: Departure for Jacksonville for practices at UNF on Wednesday and Thursday

• Friday: Off day from field work

• Saturday: Second scrimmage at Doak Campbell

Norvell's Statement: "We understand that all plans [have it] here on Monday, we'll see what that ends up playing out to be. Still plan as of this time to head to Jacksonville on Tuesday," said Mike Norvell. "We'll see any developments, we've got different options and things that are in place, depending on how it ends up playing out I guess."

Weather Projections:

• Landfall: Expected on Monday with 85 mph winds (Category 1 Hurricane)

• Rainfall: Projections of 5 to 12 inches in Tallahassee and Jacksonville

FSU's Tallahassee campus will be closed on Monday, August 5, 2024, due to Tropical Storm Debby, but this does not impact football.

Practice Schedule:

• Monday, August 5: Morning – Mike Norvell, Alex Atkins, and student-athlete availability

• Tuesday, August 6: Morning – Chris Thomsen and student-athlete availability

• Wednesday, August 7 (UNF in Jacksonville): Morning – Mike Norvell and student-athlete availability

• Thursday, August 8 (UNF in Jacksonville): Morning – Mike Norvell, Ron Dugans, and student-athlete availability

• Saturday, August 10: Second scrimmage (closed to media); virtual availability with Mike Norvell and Alex Atkins afterward

Read more here

And that’s a wrap!

Stay tuned for more updates, insights, and highlights as our Seminoles continue to make waves both on and off the field.

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for upcoming games and events.

As always, thank you for your support and Go Noles!