FSU’s Chris Thomsen and Seminoles Players Reflect After Fourth Preseason Practice

Florida State University’s football team hit the field for its fourth preseason practice on Sunday, giving coaches and players another opportunity to measure progress ahead of the 2025 campaign. Following the session, tight ends coach Chris Thomsen, alongside a handful of Seminoles players, shared their thoughts on how the team is developing, the energy in camp, and what lies ahead as preparations intensify.

Building Momentum Early in Camp

With four practices in the books, Thomsen emphasized that the team is beginning to settle into its rhythm. The opening days of camp are often dedicated to installing the foundational elements of the playbook, assessing player conditioning, and setting the tone for the remainder of the preseason.

The first few practices are always about establishing habits,” Thomsen said. “We’ve seen some great effort and intensity from the guys. They’re learning how to push through the grind and stay locked in.

The Seminoles opened their preseason last week with the goal of refining their execution on both sides of the ball while fostering healthy competition. Thomsen noted that while the team has displayed flashes of brilliance, consistency remains the focus as they move deeper into camp.

Spotlight on the Tight End Room

As FSU’s tight ends coach, Thomsen has spent much of his attention evaluating a unit that could play a pivotal role in the Seminoles’ offensive strategy. Florida State has leaned on its tight ends in recent years for both blocking assignments and pass-catching versatility, and Thomsen believes the group is progressing well.

“I’m proud of how our tight ends are attacking practice,” he explained. “They’re showing growth in understanding our schemes and executing their assignments. We want them to be complete players—reliable in the run game and dynamic in the passing game.”

Several tight ends have drawn praise for their effort and development, including returning contributors who are expected to take on expanded roles in 2025. Thomsen highlighted the importance of versatility, emphasizing that modern tight ends must be capable of lining up in multiple spots and adjusting to a variety of offensive looks.

Players Weigh in on Camp Progress

Alongside Thomsen, multiple players addressed the media following practice, offering candid insights into how the team is handling the early grind of preseason training.

One player described the intensity of these initial practices as a necessary test of both physical and mental toughness. The Florida heat, combined with the demands of extended drills, forces players to dig deep and embrace the challenge.

Another player mentioned that the coaching staff has emphasized communication and accountability, both of which are critical to maintaining cohesion as the season approaches. From the offensive line to the defensive secondary, players are being urged to stay vocal and engaged throughout practice.

Chemistry and Leadership Emerging

One of the key takeaways from Sunday’s session was the growing sense of chemistry within the team. Returning starters and veteran leaders are helping to guide younger players, while new faces are beginning to find their roles in the Seminoles’ system.

Thomsen praised the leadership that has emerged, particularly among position groups where experience is vital to success. Leadership by example, he noted, is often as important as vocal leadership during the demanding days of camp.

Several players echoed this sentiment, pointing to the collective commitment to improve and the unspoken understanding that each practice is an opportunity to build something special.

Key Areas of Focus

While enthusiasm remains high, both Thomsen and the players acknowledged that there is plenty of work left to do. Execution, consistency, and attention to detail are the primary points of emphasis as the Seminoles push toward the start of the season.

Offensively, the team is working to fine-tune timing and precision, particularly in the passing game. The tight end group’s ability to serve as both safety valves and matchup advantages will be a crucial piece of that puzzle. Defensively, players are focused on communication and discipline, ensuring that mental errors don’t overshadow physical talent.

With the first week of preseason practice nearly complete, Florida State is steadily ramping up its preparations for the 2025 season. The coming days will include longer sessions, more situational drills, and additional opportunities for players to earn their spots in the rotation.

Thomsen expressed confidence that the team is trending in the right direction but emphasized that no one in the locker room is satisfied yet. The next phase of camp will test the Seminoles’ endurance, adaptability, and commitment to improving every day.

As the Seminoles continue their journey through preseason camp, the blend of experience, youthful energy, and determined coaching could position Florida State to make a statement once the 2025 season officially kicks off.