Mike Norvell names Florida State’s ‘most improved’ player so far in fall camp

Florida State coach Mike Norvell went out of his way to praise running back Lawrance Toafili on Tuesday afternoon.

Norvell told reporters that Toafili has been the Noles’ “most improved” player so far during fall camp. That’s a big statement considering Toafili was already an impact player for Florida State.

“A guy I definitely want to mention is Lawrance Toafili,” Norvell told reporters on Tuesday. “I think he has had an incredible camp. He might be our most improved player on the roster. He’s had his explosive moments [in the past], he’s made an impact here.

“But I’m really excited about the steps he’s taken in his game. Just love all aspects of what I’m seeing from his continued development.

Toafili is a redshirt sophomore who has already rushed for 519 yards and 3 touchdowns in his Florida State career. He’s also 3 passes for 22 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

One of those receiving touchdowns was amongst Florida State’s most memorable plays in 2021. He took a swing pass to the house against Clemson after managing to get back to his feet on a tackle attempt.

Here’s that play:

If Toafili is able to step up this season, it would be huge for Florida State’s offense. The Noles haven’t had a 1,200-yard rusher since Dalvin Cook left Tallahassee after the 2016 season. Cam Akers cleared the 1,000-yard benchmark twice in that span, but no one else has come close to Cook’s impact.

Florida State also has Treshaun Ward back in 2022 and picked up Oregon transfer Trey Benson in the transfer portal this offseason. Between that trio, FSU’s rushing attack should be improved this year.

FSU opens the 2022 season with Duquesne on Aug. 27.