FSU Injury Report: Purdy “getting closer,” options at returner

Florida State’s coaching staff, including head coach Mike Norvell, spoke with the media Monday regarding several injuries to starters on the defensive and special teams units, as well as their heralded true freshman quarterback.

Junior and starting defensive lineman Robert Cooper suffered a hand injury against Miami on Saturday. Cooper wore a heavy bandage over his hand in the second half against the Canes.

“Obviously, we did put the club on Coop, and we’ll see where that goes.”

Redshirt freshman defensive back Travis Jay was also injured against Miami, and did not return to action.

“We’re evaluating both of them here early in the week, we’ll get a better sense of how they come back,” Norvell said.

If Jay were unable to go, special teams coordinator John Papuchis posited a few names who may replace him as the starting kick and punt returner.

“I feel really good about Keyshawn [Helton],” said Papuchis. “Asante Samuel is going to be back there getting some opportunities.”

Papuchis also named freshman running back Corey Wren as a possible candidate to return kicks.

On a positive note, Norvell and offensive coordinator Kenny Dillingham had some good things to say about freshman quarterback Chubba Purdy and his rehab developments.

After Purdy full dressed in warm-ups last week against Miami, Norvell said Monday, “We’re getting closer, I believe, with each day that goes by.”

Norvell added on Purdy “We’re going to go through that process as quick as he can, and is safe for him.”

Dillingham said that the Queen Creek, Ariz. product has handled his rehab “like a pro”.