Mike Norvell remains 'hopeful' regarding NCAA waiver process for Miami transfer Darrell Jackson
Florida State head coach Mike Norvell provided an update on Seminoles defensive lineman Darrell Jackson at the 2023 ACC Football Kickoff event on Wednesday.
Norvell shared that FSU is still waiting to hear if Jackson will be cleared and is hoping for a resolution soon.
Darrell Jackson started his career at Maryland, before transferring to Miami. The Seminoles are hoping that the NCAA will provide Jackson with a waiver, which would make him immediately eligible, despite transferring twice.
“It’s in progress. We’re hopeful that we hear something here sooner rather than later,” Norvell said. “We’ve got a great group. We are fully hopeful and expecting that Darrell is going to be a part.”
Even though Jackson hasn’t been cleared for the 2023 season, he continues to go through workouts with the team. Norvell believes that he will be a difference maker this season, if he is cleared.
Jackson played in all 12 games as a sophomore at Miami, making 11 starts. He finished the year with 27 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss and 3 sacks.
“I know Darrell is working his tail off, continuing to prepare. What a special young man. He’s got an incredible future,” Norvell said. “And he’ll be a game-changer for us. I mean he’s really a special talent.”
Norvell spoke with Jackson about being patient as the process plays out. The Seminoles hope that the process ends with Jackson being available for the 2023 season.
“One of the things I told Darrell at the beginning of this is anytime you have to appeal or file for a waiver, it’s a process,” Norvell said. “Ultimately he can’t control much of it right now. But he can control the work. So every day continuing to grow, continuing to get better. … He looks great. Excited about his future.”
Jordan Travis recalls his emotions learning Jared Verse was returning for 2023 season
If Jackson does get a waiver he will be a part of a loaded Florida State defensive line that also includes star edge rusher Jared Verse.
Seminoles quarterback Jordan Travis shared on the ACC Network his emotions upon learning that Verse would be back for another yer.
“I knew pretty early on,” Travis said. “He told me and Trey [Benson] pretty early on. I didn’t believe it until he announced it. You never know with Jared.”
Jared Verse transferred to Florida State from Albany ahead of the 2022 season. With his big personality, Jordan Travis admitted that he rubbed people the wrong way at first. Then, he started to produce on the field and everyone came around on Verse. In 12 games, he had nine sacks and 17 tackles for loss.
“We are so blessed to have him back. Just another leader for this football team and obviously a great playmaker. I’m so glad he’s on our team and we’re not facing him. He’s a special player.”