Florida State Hires New Offensive and Defensive Coordinators, Adds Defensive Line Coach and Safeties Coach
TALLAHASSEE, FL — Florida State University has made significant changes to its coaching staff as the Seminoles look to strengthen both sides of the ball heading into the upcoming season. The program has announced the hiring of a new offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator, defensive line coach, and safeties coach, signaling the start of a new era for the FSU football team.
In a move that has generated plenty of excitement, the Seminoles have hired John Smith, a seasoned offensive mind with a proven track record of success. Smith comes to FSU after several successful years as the offensive coordinator at a Power 5 program, where he was instrumental in developing a high-octane, balanced offense. His ability to adapt to different styles of play and his emphasis on up-tempo, explosive football align well with head coach Mike Norvell’s vision for the program. Smith is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Seminoles’ offense, which has shown flashes of brilliance but is looking to take the next step in its development.
On the defensive side, FSU has also made a major hire with Tommy Johnson as the new defensive coordinator. Johnson, who previously served as the defensive coordinator at a top-ranked program, is known for his aggressive and opportunistic defensive schemes. With a focus on creating turnovers and putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks, Johnson’s defensive philosophy is expected to help FSU continue to build upon its strong defensive foundation. His ability to develop young talent and instill a winning mindset will be crucial for the Seminoles as they look to improve on both the national and conference levels.
In addition to the coordinators, FSU has bolstered its coaching staff with the addition of Marcus Thompson as the new defensive line coach and Darren Cooper as the safeties coach. Thompson brings extensive experience working with elite defensive line units, known for his ability to develop pass rushers and create havoc in the trenches. Cooper, a former defensive back himself, is regarded as an excellent teacher of the game, particularly in developing safeties to read offenses and make key plays in the secondary.
These coaching changes come at a pivotal time for Florida State, which has shown progress under Norvell but is eager to take the next step toward championship contention. The new staff will have the task of not only improving on the field but also continuing to recruit top-tier talent to Tallahassee. With these fresh faces in key coaching positions, FSU fans are optimistic about the future of the program and the direction in which it is headed.
As the Seminoles prepare for the 2024 season, these strategic hires demonstrate a clear commitment to excellence and the desire to build a balanced and competitive team across all phases of the game.
