Mike Norvell reveals how transfer DB Malik Feaster has made a seamless transition
With Florida State‘s home opener just around the corner, head coach Mike Norvell is putting the final touches on his roster. One person, the Seminoles, expect to contribute in their upcoming matchup against Duquesne is recently acquired defensive back out of the transfer portal Malik Feaster. Despite joining the team late, he has made an impact during recent practices. And Norvell credits Feaster’s experience for his seamless transition onto the team’s depth chart.
“Yeah, he’s doing great. I know we talked about it a few weeks ago about just how hard that transition is; to come in after camp’s already started. A week in, newcomer, but has a lot of experience,” said Norvell. “I thought he was a guy that absolutely flashed today. With more opportunities and a chance to impact, what’s that gonna look like on Saturday? We’ll see, but defensively and in special teams, he’s really putting a lot of work to prepare himself to be able to get out there and play. So I liked watching him compete today.”
Feaster transferred to Florida State in early August from Jacksonville State. With the Jaguars, he played in 40 games over four seasons making 118 tackles, 24 pass deflections, four tackles for loss, three interceptions, and two forced fumbles. With his four years of experience, it is understandable why he is off to a hot start with the Seminoles. The only question that remains to be answered is how early and often he will be utilized in the defensive game plan. A question we will see an answer to starting Saturday against the Dukes.
Norvell explains why WR Ja’Khi Douglas was not on FSU’s initial depth chart
On the Seminoles depth chart for their upcoming game, there was a noticeable absence, wide receiver Ja’Khi Douglas. But there was a good reason behind Douglas’s absence from Florida State’s initial depth chart, as head coach Mike Norvell explained.
“Ja’Khi is doing a great job, you know. Just in his growth playing receiver, getting into the backfield,” said Norvell. “He got banged up a little bit in one of the scrimmages, so he’s not gonna be available here this week. We feel that he’ll be back soon, but it’s one of those unfortunate things that he did get banged up, and obviously, that’s why he’s not on the depth chart.”
The speedy red-shirt sophomore from Houma, LA, was expected to play a more prominent role in the Seminoles’ offense this season. The Seminoles love his dual-threat ability and utilize him both in the passing and running game. Last season Douglas recorded 14 receptions for 255 yards and a touchdown; along with seven rushing attempts for six yards.