Mike Norvell provides update on NCAA waiver process for Darrell Jackson Jr.
Earlier in August, Mike Norvell and the Florida State Seminoles got bad news on the waiver status of defensive lineman Darrell Jackson Jr. His waiver to play immediately was denied by the NCAA. Because of that, he won’t be able to play in 2023.
Still, Florida State isn’t giving up and Mike Norvell provided an update as to where the team is in the waiver process now.
“That’s something we’re continuing to seek more guidance from on any reevaluation of the process,” Mike Norvell said. “And all due respect to decisions that are made, I still find it unfortunate for the young man.”
There has been a lot of pressure within the state of Florida following the NCAA’s decision to deny Darrell Jackson a waiver. That includes 12 bi-partisan members of the Florida Congressional delegation who sent a letter to NCAA President Charlie Baker to intervene and allow Jackson to play.
The reason Jackson needs a waiver to transfer is because this is his second transfer as an undergraduate. He started his career at Maryland before transferring to Miami and ultimately Florida State.
“In December is when he chose, for his situation, to go into the transfer portal. In January, a new standard was signed in with the NCAA on January 11th, and he had been enrolled here,” Norvell said. “I’m hopeful that that’s something that’s still getting looked at. It’s one of the things that we’re continuing to check back on.”
Mike Norvell also added that if Darrell Jackson Jr. is cleared, be it before or after the LSU game, he’ll be ready to go.
“He’s practicing. He’s preparing. You never know how things are gonna go. If it upholds where he’s not eligible to play, then he’s going to continue to prepare to be his best. I’ve respected so much his attitude and approach throughout this Fall Camp after finding out the news that it was denied, but always hopeful that it’s something that will be reevaluated by the powers that be,” Norvell said.
“If he does get cleared, whether it’s before the [LSU] game or whether it’s at some point during the season, he’ll be ready. So, we’re going to continue to go through that, and just hopeful.”
Darrell Jackson Jr. reacted to his waiver denial
Shortly after his waiver was denied, Darrell Jackson Jr. explained his reaction to the news.
“It was hurtful,” Jackson said. “Because I know what I came home for. I came home for my Mom. So, I’m just trying to get through it and be here for my Mom. She thinks it’s her fault but it’s not. I’ll continue to be there for my Mom and see how things play out.”