Mike Norvell decided to bring the former Seminole back to Tallahassee. He could become another addition to the coaching staff soon.
As Florida State coaches and players headed to the practice field to begin spring training on Tuesday, some familiar faces joined them. Former star linebacker Ernie Sims entered practice with defensive tackle coach Odell Huggins. He's keeping a close eye on the defense and could have some role with the Seminoles, if not expected.
Head coach Mike Norvell could not confirm Sims' addition in his post-practice press conference. It would not be surprising if the program makes an announcement in the near future.
“Not officially. But unofficially, we're happy to have him here. No, he's officially here,” Nobel said with a smile.
Sims is completing a one-year stint as UCF's linebackers coach under Gus Malzahn. He began his coaching career in 2018 and has since worked at multiple universities in Florida. Sims started as an assistant strength and conditioning coordinator at Florida Atlantic and served as the program's director of football operations the following year when the Owls finished No. 11. 3, won the conference championship and defeated SMU in the Boca Raton Bowl.
Sims arrived at USF as a defensive quality control analyst after Lane Kiffin transferred to Ole Miss. He was promoted to linebackers coach the following season and held that position in 2022 while also serving as interim defensive coordinator.
A native of North Florida Christian High School, Sims signed with Florida State University as the No. 1 ranked freshman in 2003. Sims remains one of the highest-ranked prep recruits of all time, along with Jadevon Clowney, Robert Nkendiche and Rashan Gary. And Vince Young has a 1.0000 rating on 247Sports, making him the No. 1 all-time player.
Sims played under the legendary Bobby Bowden at Florida State and developed into a star for the Seminoles. He appeared in 37 games (22 starts) over three seasons, totaling 200 tackles, 21 lost tackles, seven sacks, three forced fumbles, 11 pass breakups, two interceptions, and one blocked kick. Recorded. Sims was named ESPN's First Team All-American in 2004 and ACC All-Conference Honorable Mention in 2005.
After his junior season, he declared early for the 2006 NFL Draft and was selected ninth overall by the Detroit Lions. He played eight seasons with four different teams at the professional level. Sims finished his career with 623 tackles, 5.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and one interception.
Read more: FSU football's Mike Norvell talks about spring training and looks ahead to the 2024 season
continue nord game day We'll have more coverage of Florida State football throughout the spring.
