Florida State tailback Jaylin Lucas to miss remainder of season

Florida State will be without tailback Jaylin Lucas for the remainder of the season,  coach Mike Norvell said.

Florida State does not release details on injuries, but Norvell said that Lucas has a remaining redshirt he can use and would have two years of eligibility remaining. Norvell said he anticipates Lucas returning to FSU in 2025.

"I'm still very excited about what his future is as a Seminole," Norvell said, "but it's unfortunate we're going to lose him for the rest of the season."

Lucas was part of the Seminoles' running back rotation and is one of the most explosive kick returners in the country. A transfer from Indiana, he finished last season with 572 return yards and a touchdown.

FSU expected its running game to be the strength of its offense in 2024, but through an 0-2 start, the Seminoles rank 128th nationally in rush yards per game (59.5) and Lucas has had just two carries for 13 yards. He's also had three catches for 39 yards as a receiver.

Norvell said he expects some of Florida State's younger running backs, including highly touted freshman Kam Davis, to fill the void left by Lucas' injury.

"Our thoughts are with him as he's jumping into the rehab part of recovery, and I know he'll do a great job of continuing to help the guys on the field.