Darrell Jackson Jr. shares first impressions of Florida State teammates, Mike Norvell

Back in November, Darrell Jackson Jr. was opposite of the Florida State offensive line, doing everything he can to stop them. Playing for the Miami Hurricanes, there is not a lot of love between the two programs, even if players come from similar areas. But with the transfer portal, players are now switching allegiances.

Jackson has crossed over to the other side of the rivalry, now repping the Seminoles. He conducted his first interview in the garnett, discussing his first impressions of his teammates. Before a reporter could finish the question, Jackson began to talk about the mutual respect everyone in the Florida State program has for one another.

“They have respect for each other,” Jackson said. “They have respect for each other and how they carry themselves.”

Jackson is on his third program in three years, playing his freshman season at Maryland. Florida State finally feels like home for the defensive tackle, looking to make an immediate impact for the Seminoles. Last season in Coral Gables, he recorded 27 tackles, 4.5 tackles for a loss, and three sacks.

Big production is heading the way of head coach Mike Norvell.

Darrell Jackson Jr. explains relationship with head coach Mike Norvell

Jackson is one of the defensive linemen to transfer into the program but 10 total are making their way to Tallahassee before the 2023 season. Norvell has done a great job making Florida State an attractive destination thanks to 10 wins.

As they are in recruiting, relationships are huge in the transfer total. Jackson said he is a big fan of Norvell and the energy he brings. When asked the question, Jackson immediately lit up and started singing his head coach’s praises.

“Great dude,” Jackson said. “He has so much energy. So, I love it. I love it. He has so much energy and he’s a great dude. Cares about you and I just love him.”

Expectations are ahead of Florida State, with many placing them somewhere in the top 10 for way-too-early rankings. Depth at the interior defensive line is going to be a strength, with Jackson being a huge reason why.

Competition will not scare him away, wanting to compete for snaps on the field. Having a coach such as Norvell instills trust all around.