Tallahassee, Florida, January 2, 2026

Florida State University has announced key leadership changes in its football program, appointing John Garrett as Deputy Athletics Director and Taylor Edwards as Director of Football and Player Acquisition. These strategic hires aim to enhance player management, recruitment, and operational efficiency in line with evolving NCAA regulations and competitive challenges. With a focus on an NFL-style operational model, this new structure seeks to better support student-athletes and improve the program’s success in college athletics.

Florida State University Strengthens Football Program with New Leadership

New Appointments Set to Revolutionize Player Management and Recruitment

Tallahassee, Florida – Florida State University has announced significant changes in its football program’s leadership to enhance operational efficiency and competitive success. The appointments of John Garrett as Deputy Athletics Director and General Manager of Player Personnel, alongside Taylor Edwards as Director of Football and Player Acquisition, represent a strategic move toward redefining how college football programs operate in the face of evolving challenges, including name, image, and likeness (NIL) regulations and the transfer portal.

The new roles and operational model aim to align Florida State’s football program more closely with professional standards, leveraging market insights to boost player recruitment and management. Such strategic innovations reflect the determination of university leadership to not only adapt but thrive in the competitive landscape of college athletics.

Leadership Changes Reflect Commitment to Excellence

John Garrett joins Florida State after a successful stint at Duke University, where he served as the General Manager of Player Personnel. His tenure at Duke included a pivotal role in building rosters that led to notable achievements, including 17 wins and triumph in the 2025 Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) championship. With a focus on roster management, recruiting coordination, and the integration of analytics into decision-making, Garrett is poised to bring a wealth of knowledge to Florida State.

Simultaneously, Taylor Edwards’ appointment as Director of Football and Player Acquisition underscores the program’s dual commitment to player development and operational excellence. Previously with the University of Miami, he specializes in player evaluation, scouting, recruitment, and retention. Edwards’ experience will supplement Garrett’s efforts to create a robust football personnel structure, benefiting both players and coaches.

Adopting an NFL-Style Operational Model

The recently introduced operational model will emulate NFL structures, promoting clearer divisions of responsibility within the football program. This approach emphasizes the comprehensive assessment of players while streamlining recruiting operations—a crucial element in ensuring that Florida State remains competitive in today’s rapidly evolving collegiate environment.

By facilitating an environment where student-athletes receive the attention they require, Florida State aims to better support player development and success. This transition is a proactive response to the increasing complexities of roster management and the ever-present demands of college football.

Benefits of the New Structure

The employment of Garrett and Edwards signals a strong intent to fortify the football program. Their combined expertise not only enhances the current player personnel structure but also aligns with national trends toward professionalization in college athletics. The focus on NIL integration and efficient roster management could serve as a model for other institutions seeking to adapt effectively to modern-day challenges.

The implications of these changes are far-reaching. By implementing a sophisticated operational model, the Florida State football program is not only investing in immediate success but is also gearing up for long-term achievements, potentially leading to more championships in the years to come.

Community Impact and Future Aspirations

Engaging the local community and alumni will be paramount in supporting the football program’s trajectory. Efforts to integrate community insights into recruitment and player development can enhance the program’s reputation while also generating a positive ripple effect within Jacksonville and beyond.

Students and fans alike stand to benefit from a program that is increasingly oriented toward success and sustainability. By aligning with professional practices, Florida State could inspire other programs to follow suit, ultimately boosting the overall quality of college athletics.

Looking Ahead

With the new leadership in place, Florida State University is set to embark on a transformative journey that prioritizes operational excellence and competitive readiness. As the football program evolves, the commitment to leveraging innovative strategies and enhancing player experiences will be key factors in shaping future successes.

Supporters of Florida State’s football program are encouraged to remain engaged with the evolving changes and to champion local initiatives that uplift the university’s mission and goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is John Garrett?

John Garrett is the newly appointed Deputy Athletics Director and General Manager of Player Personnel at Florida State University. He previously served as the General Manager of Player Personnel at Duke University, where he played a key role in building rosters that secured 17 wins and the 2025 ACC championship.

What is Taylor Edwards’ role at Florida State?

Taylor Edwards has been hired as the Director of Football and Player Acquisition at Florida State University. In this role, he will focus on player evaluation, scouting, recruitment, and retention, working closely with John Garrett and head coach Mike Norvell to enhance the program’s player personnel structure.

What is the new operational model for Florida State’s football program?

The new operational model at Florida State University aims to align the football program with an NFL-style structure. This includes clear divisions of responsibility between on-field coaching and off-field football operations, with a focus on roster construction, player evaluation, recruiting operations, and NIL integration. The goal is to maximize competitive success in the evolving college football landscape.

How do these changes impact Florida State’s football program?

The strategic hires of John Garrett and Taylor Edwards, along with the implementation of the new operational model, are expected to strengthen Florida State’s football program. By adopting professional standards and enhancing operational efficiency, the program is positioned for sustained success and future championships.

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