FSU Football Star Threatens Boycott, Claims Coach Lied About George Floyd Discussion

TOPLINE

Florida State University’s head football coach Mike Norvell claimed he “went back and forth individually with every player” this past weekend following the protests across the country linked to the death of George Floyd; however, star defensive tackle Marvin Wilson vehemently disputed that account, declaring there was “no one on one talk between us and coach” and that he and his teammates “will not be working out until further notice.” 

KEY FACTS

Critical quote: 

“You see hate, and you see discrimination. You see some of the acts that have occurred; I mean it’s a problem,” Norvell told The Athletic. “And it’s something that we have to stand together, and we have to work to get it fixed.”

Key Background:

FSU players returned to campus on Monday for voluntary workouts after a three-month hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic. Wilson, a captain and the team’s best defensive player, declared for the 2020 NFL draft and would have been an early-round pick, but decided to return for his senior season. Norvell was hired last December to be Florida State’s new head coach after the team had fired Willie Taggart, who was the first black head coach in school history. 

Further Reading:

Star FSU player disputes new coach’s claim he talked to each player amidst George Floyd protests, threatens workout boycott (Yahoo) 

Florida State’s Marvin Wilson disputes coach Mike Norvell reached out over George Floyd death (ESPN)

Drew Brees Says He ‘Will Never Agree With’ NFL Players Kneeling During National Anthem (Forbes)