Report: Blackman enters name into transfer portal
Move comes after Francois stays, Travis transfers in from Louisville
TALLAHASSEE — Redshirt sophomore quarterback James Blackman’s time at Florida State may be coming to an end.
The Belle Glade native has started the process of putting his name into the NCAA transfer portal, 247 Sports.com reported.
By doing so, Blackman can now speak with coaches without violating NCAA rules and explore his options outside of Florida State. Blackman has not announced whether he intends to leave the university.
The decision to enter the transfer portal comes after three-star recruit Jordan Travis transferred from Louisville to FSU and starting Seminoles quarterback Deondre Francois enrolled in spring classes after briefly exploring NFL draft options.
While Travis gives the Seminoles depth, it is still unclear whether he will qualify for a hardship wavier required to become immediately eligible for the upcoming season.
This past season, Blackman started one game and appeared in four for the Seminoles when called upon due to Francois injuries.
During his short time undercenter in2018, Blackman completed 33 of his 51 passes for 510 yards, five touchdowns and one interception.
He earned ACC Player of the Week honors after finishing 29-of-46 passing for 421 yards and four touchdowns against NC State.
In 2017, Blackman got a taste of being the full-time starter, playing in 12 games after Francois suffered a severe injury in the season opener against Alabama.
During that campaign he completed173 of 297 passes for 2,230 yards, 19 touchdowns and11 interceptions.
The Seminoles finished 7-5 with Blackman under center, including a 42-13 win over Southern Mississippi in the Walk-On’s Independence Bowl.
Throughout the season, FSU coach Willie Taggart has shown faith and confidence in Blackman, but the starting nod ultimately went to Francois whenever hewas healthy.
Taggart has worked to add depth to his quarterback group.
The Seminoles were heavily involved in the recruiting of quarterback Sam Howell, who ultimately chose to sign with UNC over FSU.
While the Seminoles hired an offensive coordinator Kendal Briles, who is accustomed to running an up tempo offense comparable Taggart’s Gulf Coast attack, it’s unclear how well Blackman would fit into that scheme.