Florida State's standout receiver Duce Robinson has made a significant decision for his football career. He will return to the Seminoles for the 2026 season instead of entering the NFL draft early. Robinson announced this move just hours into the new year, following a period of serious consideration.
Robinson's Commitment to Florida State
Robinson explained his choice in detail on Friday. He emphasized his desire to achieve something special with the team. "We have the opportunity to do something really special," Robinson stated. He felt it would be unfair to leave after the disappointing 5-7 season last fall, especially given the support from fans.
"I didn't want to leave having the season we had last year," Robinson said. "It felt unfair to the fans because they've given me so much, and so I just want to try to give them something in return."
Despite his personal success with 56 catches for 1,081 yards and six touchdowns as a junior in 2025, Robinson acknowledged that individual achievements do not reflect team performance. "I had a pretty successful season last year, if we just look at it, but my success isn't a reflection of the team's success," he noted.
Impact on Florida State's Rebuild
Robinson's return is a major boost for Florida State's chances in 2026. Coach Mike Norvell views this as the biggest offseason move, especially with over 35 players entering the transfer portal. Robinson has actively participated in recruiting efforts, meeting with transfer quarterback prospects like DJ Lagway, Anthony Colandrea, and Ashton Daniels.
Daniels joins from Auburn, where he played four games in 2025. The Seminoles will also introduce five new offensive line starters, as the 2025 group has exhausted their eligibility. Robinson will lead a receiving corps that includes deep threat Micahi Danzy and slot receiver Jayvan Boggs.
Defensive Reinforcements
Florida State's defensive plans have solidified recently. Twins Mandrell Desir and Darryll Desir announced their return on Thursday, strengthening the defensive front after exploring transfer options. Defensive tackle Kevin Wynn followed a similar path, returning to the team.
The Seminoles secured commitments from transfer linebackers Chris Jones from Southern Miss and Mikai Gbayor from North Carolina on Thursday. Additionally, top cornerback Ja'Bril Rawls decided to stay after considering the transfer portal.
Coach Norvell's Perspective
Coach Mike Norvell, with a 38-34 record over six seasons at Florida State, faces challenges after a 2-10 mark in 2024 and last fall's 5-7 season. He relies on Robinson and the incoming transfers to make an immediate impact in 2026. Norvell's leadership is crucial as Florida State navigates significant roster changes.
In an offseason marked by transformation across college football, Florida State may experience the largest roster turnover in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The school has announced 13 transfer signees, with more expected, and signed 32 high school or junior college prospects in December.
Robinson's Personal Journey
Robinson transferred to Florida State from Southern California a year ago. He understands the dynamics of player movement in modern college sports. "I will never fault a guy for looking for a new opportunity or looking for a better opportunity," Robinson said. "I was a product of the transfer portal. And it worked out for me. Coming to Florida State was the best decision I could have ever made."
After contemplating his stay-or-go decision, Robinson evaluated areas for improvement and considered feedback from Florida State's coaches. "There's a lot of areas I have to clean up in my game, especially if I want to get where I want to go," he explained.
Robinson highlighted two key focuses for his offseason. "Two of my biggest things are just going to be getting in and out of every route, showing that I'm able to run every route in the books. And then also without the ball in my hands, what am I doing? Because that's just as important as when I do have the ball in my hands," he said.
He expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming work. "I'm really excited to be able to work on that this offseason. I'm going to make sure it shows up next year," Robinson concluded.
