Mike Norvell details interesting path for Darion Williamson at FSU

Florida State has one of the best offenses in the country, anchored by one of the best receiving corps in the nation. Little-known junior Darion Williamson got into the act last week with his first career touchdown catch against Southern Miss.

It’s taken him a long time to really make his mark.

“He’s a really good player. I mean he’s developed well,” coach Mike Norvell said. “Darion’s had an interesting journey. His senior year he had a knee injury. Came in, he was kind of recovering from that as he was here. But still, no matter what he could do he was taking every step and trying to be able to apply it.”

It’s tough starting behind the 8-ball as a true freshman, but Williamson managed. He had begun to contribute more in 2021 and 2022, logging 19 catches for 231 yards.

But he still wasn’t really getting as many touches as he’d like.

Not until a breakout performance against Boston College last year when he went for five catches and 98 yards. However, Williamson suffered an injury in that game that would sideline him the rest of the season.

“As he got stronger, as he gained the confidence in his body then you saw that, you see the talent, you see the ability,” Norvell said. “He’s had some unfortunate things that just, whether, last year the ankle was in this Boston College game where almost 100 yards in the first half, just got kind of freak thing that happened and he missed all the way till the bowl game.”

While all eyes for opponents are on the likes of stars Keon Coleman and Johnny Wilson, the opportunity will be there for players like Williamson to make a mark further down the depth chart.

He’s certainly shown the ability, a 6-foot-3, 204-pound wideout that can go up and get it, evidenced by his touchdown catch last week.

Norvell is grateful that Williamson has stuck around through the injuries and the hardships to be a contributing member of the team in 2023. When you want to make a title run, you need all hands on deck, and Williamson has a quality set of mitts.

“We’re glad to have him back out and rolling,” Norvell said. “I think he can be a really special player as he continues to grow. He’s got a great skill set.”