Florida State football’s 2024 season continues to unravel, as junior running back and kickoff returner Jaylin Lucas has been sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a devastating injury suffered against Boston College. This latest setback comes at a time when the Seminoles are already struggling, sitting at 0-2 after back-to-back losses to Georgia Tech and Boston College. The preseason optimism that had FSU pegged to win the ACC has quickly evaporated.
Head coach Mike Norvell addressed the media on Monday, confirming that Lucas, a key offseason transfer from Indiana, will not return this season. However, Norvell expressed confidence that Lucas will be back in 2025. Lucas was brought in to be a versatile weapon for the Seminoles, capable of making plays as a running back, receiving threat, and special teams star. His loss is a significant blow to a team that has been desperate for offensive sparks.
The Seminoles had high hopes for Lucas this season, especially after a disappointing opener against Georgia Tech, where Norvell acknowledged the need to involve him more in the game plan. Despite being underutilized in that game, Lucas showed flashes of his potential with two receptions for 34 yards against Boston College before his injury. His absence leaves a void in the FSU offense, and his playmaking ability will be sorely missed.
To make matters worse, Florida State has also seen two pivotal recruits, four-star defensive tackle Myron Charles and four-star defensive end Javion Hilson, decommit in recent days. This adds to the growing frustrations within the fan base, who are losing patience with Norvell as he enters his fifth season as head coach.
With the team facing Memphis next, the pressure is mounting on the Seminoles to turn things around. Ja’Khi Douglas, Lucas’s brother and current wide receiver, will likely see an increased role in the offense as Florida State looks for answers. But as it stands, this is far from the season the Seminoles had hoped for, and getting back in the win column is more critical than ever.
