Florida State has officially chosen its quarterback for the upcoming season, naming transfer Ashton Daniels as the Week 1 starter following a competitive spring battle.
FSU Football shared the news on X with a simple post featuring Daniels and the caption: “QB1️⃣ #NoleFamily”
Daniels, who arrived from Auburn earlier this year after beginning his college career at Stanford, edged out redshirt freshman Kevin Sperry for the role. Head coach Mike Norvell held off on making a decision until after spring practices concluded, but Daniels’ experience and steady performance ultimately set him apart. “I’ve really been pleased with what he’s shown, being able to live in the pocket and delivering the ball,” Norvell said during spring. “I think he’s shown growth through the spring on the vertical shots, and he hit a couple [in] the scrimmage the other day that were right where they needed to be. I mean, huge plays that supported big drives.”
Daniels brings a sizable résumé with him. Across four collegiate seasons, he has appeared in 37 games with 23 starts, totaling 4,783 passing yards and 24 touchdowns, along with more than 1,300 rushing yards and 11 scores. His most productive stretch came in 2023 at Stanford, where he threw for over 2,200 yards.
Last season at Auburn, Daniels played in four games, completing 68 of 119 passes for 797 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. He also contributed on the ground with 280 rushing yards and two scores. Auburn strategically limited his appearances late in the season, sitting him against Mercer to preserve his redshirt and allow him to start in the Iron Bowl finale.
Florida State is looking for stability under center after back-to-back seasons of inconsistent quarterback play from transfers DJ Uiagalelei and Tommy Castellanos. The Seminoles have struggled to find success recently, finishing 5-7 last year and missing a bowl game for the second consecutive season.
Daniels will make his debut as the starter when Florida State opens the 2026 season against New Mexico State on Aug. 29.
Editorial credit: Chad Robertson Media / Shutterstock.com
