Florida State Seminoles football has a rich history filled with iconic players who have left a lasting legacy on the game. Over the years, FSU has produced some of the greatest talents in college football, from electrifying quarterbacks to dominant defensive players.
These athletes not only elevated the Seminoles to national prominence but also etched their names in the annals of football history.
Below, we’ll look at the top five all-time Florida State Seminoles football legends you should know—players whose contributions helped define the program’s success and continue to inspire future generations.
Charlie Ward
Charlie Ward is undoubtedly one of the greatest Florida State Seminoles football legends, impacting the program and college football. As the starting quarterback for FSU from 1992 to 1993, Ward’s dual-threat capabilities redefined what it meant to play the position.
In 1993, Ward led the Seminoles to their first-ever national championship, securing his place in history with a stellar season that earned him the prestigious Heisman Trophy.
His ability to excel in the air and on the ground made Ward truly special. His precise passing and ability to scramble when needed made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Beyond his physical talents, Ward’s leadership and poise under pressure were key factors in FSU’s dominance during his tenure.
During his time, Charlie Ward elevated the Florida State Seminoles Odds by leading them to their first national championship in 1993, showcasing unmatched dual-threat quarterback skills and winning the Heisman Trophy.
His success helped the Seminoles into a national powerhouse and paved the way for future dual-threat quarterbacks. While Charlie Ward opted not to pursue a career in the NFL, focusing instead on professional basketball, his legacy in college football remains unchallenged.
Deion Sanders
Deion Sanders, also known as “Prime Time,” is one of the most iconic figures in Florida State Seminoles football history. Playing for the Seminoles from 1985 to 1988, Sanders brought an unmatched combination of talent, swagger, and game-changing ability to the team.
As a shutdown cornerback, Sanders’ speed and athleticism made him nearly impossible to beat, allowing him to lock down opposing receivers and force turnovers easily.
Beyond his defensive prowess, Sanders was a dynamic return specialist, turning punt returns into thrilling highlight-reel plays. His electrifying style earned him two-time consensus All-American honors and a spot in the College Football Hall of Fame.
Sanders’s impact on the game extended far beyond his time at FSU, as he became an NFL Hall of Famer, but his college days are where his legendary status began. For Florida State, Sanders set the standard for defensive excellence and continues to be synonymous with greatness in football.
Derrick Brooks
Former Florida State linebacker Derrick Brooks was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, becoming the seventh Seminole to receive this honor. Brooks expressed his gratitude, reflecting on the significance of having his former coaches, Bobby Bowden and Tony Dungy, as part of his football journey.
A standout player, Brooks earned consensus All-American honors in 1993 and 1994, leading FSU to its first national championship with a victory over Nebraska in the Orange Bowl.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Brooks excelled academically, earning two-time Academic All-American honors and induction into the CoSIDA Academic All-America Hall of Fame. His dedication to education continues through his work with youth.
In 2014, Brooks was also enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and his jersey number is retired at both FSU and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Brooks’ legacy at FSU will continue as his son DeCalon follows in his footsteps with a football scholarship.
Jameis Winston
Jameis Winston is undeniably one of the all-time Florida State Seminoles football legends. As the starting quarterback in 2013, Winston led FSU to its third national championship in an unforgettable season. His leadership and exceptional play earned him the Heisman Trophy, making him the youngest player to win the prestigious award.
Winston’s arm strength, football IQ, and poise under pressure helped the Seminoles remain undefeated that season, culminating in a thrilling victory over Auburn in the BCS National Championship Game.
Winston’s impact at FSU was immediate and powerful. He broke numerous school records while finishing his college career with an impressive 26-1 record as a starter. His ability to perform in clutch moments and lead his team to greatness secured his place in Florida State history.
Despite a brief college career, Winston’s accomplishments have left a lasting legacy, making him a key figure in the Seminoles’ football tradition and one of the most iconic players in the program’s history.
Ron Simmons
Ron Simmons is one of the all-time Florida State Seminoles football legends, known for his incredible impact on and off the field. As a key recruit in Bobby Bowden’s 1977 class, Simmons helped turn FSU into a powerhouse, earning consensus All-American honors twice and finishing ninth in Heisman voting as a defensive lineman.
His disruptive play as a nose guard changed the game for Florida State, leading the team to national prominence. Simmons’ influence didn’t stop at football—he also became a WWE Hall of Famer, making him one of the few athletes to excel in both sports.
Conclusion
These five legends—Charlie Ward, Deion Sanders, Derrick Brooks, Jameis Winston, and Ron Simmons—helped define Florida State Seminoles football, each contributing to the program’s prominence. Their achievements on and off the field inspire future generations, solidifying their status as all-time greats in FSU’s history.
