Chris Weinke, perhaps Florida State’s most legendary quarterback since the days of Bobby Bowden, has officially returned to Tallahassee—back to the Seminoles as their new quarterbacks coach. This move marks a powerful “coming home” for a player whose impact on the program is still strongly felt, and it signals a renaissance for FSU’s passing game with a Heisman Trophy winner guiding the next generation.
NFL and College Coaching Foundations
Before stepping into this role, Weinke’s coaching résumé was both deep and diverse. His most recent position was at the University of Tennessee, where he served as quarterbacks coach during the 2019 and 2020 seasons
In 2018, he worked on the same staff as Tennessee’s running backs coach, and 2017 found him as an offensive analyst at powerhouse Alabama
His NFL coaching stint came as the quarterbacks coach for the St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams from 2015 to 2016, where he mentored young talents like Nick Foles, Case Keenum, and the #1 overall draft pick Jared Goff
Prior to that, he directed the IMG Football Academy in Bradenton, Florida (2010–14), honing the skills of preps and prospects—including future NFL quarterbacks—highlighting his strength in fundamentals and quarterback development
Weinke’s Impact at Tennessee (2019–2020)
In Weinke’s first season as Tennessee’s quarterbacks coach, the Vols’ offense jumped significantly: ranking 11th in the nation and 2nd in the SEC in yards per completion (14.4 yards per catch), contributing to an 8–5 record and a Gator Bowl victory
Improvements were evident in completion percentage, yardage, and efficiency.
The 2020 season, while plagued overall by struggles, still showed quarterback fundamentals trending upward: completion percentage rose from 59.1% to 63.4%, yards per game increased by ~21%, and passing touchdowns per game climbed by ~14%
Despite criticism during the 2020 campaign—particularly from fans and analysts—the raw statistical gains suggest Weinke offers a clear developmental impact when given time and consistency.
Coaching Trajectory: From Prep to Pros
IMG Academy (2010–14): Under his leadership, the program posted a 19–2 record in 2013–14, and Weinke directly coached future collegiate and family of NFL quarterbacks
Rams (2015–16): Transitioned to the NFL, working hands-on with quarterbacks in a professional setting; Keenum passed for over 3,000 yards under his watch, and he helped establish a foundation for Jared Goff
fromtherumbleseat.com
Alabama (2017): As an offensive analyst, he contributed during a season culminating in a College Football Playoff national championship
Tennessee (2018–20): Flexible in roles (RB coach and QB coach), demonstrating versatility and effectiveness across multiple positions and performance environments
Florida State Legacy: Player Turned Legend
Weinke’s connection to FSU runs deep. He debuted in Tallahassee at 25 after a six‑year minor‑league baseball career, quickly turning into a sensation under Coach Bobby Bowden
National Championship (1999): Weinke led the Seminoles to an undefeated season and the national title
Heisman Trophy (2000): Awarded at age 28—making him the oldest recipient—he threw for 4,167 yards, led the nation in passing, and earned multiple national player awards
Seminole Record‑setter: Concluded his career with school records in passing yards (9,839), completions (650), and touchdown passes (79)
Hall of Fame Recognitions: Inducted into the FSU Athletics Hall of Fame in 2011, and the 2019 Florida Sports Hall of Fame class
Weinke’s remarkable maturity—coming from professional baseball at an older age—captured Bowden’s praise for his discipline and poise
Those traits carried over into his coaching identity.
The Significance of the Return to FSU
Deep Alumni Connection
Weinke not only understands FSU’s culture—he defines it from the golden era of Seminole football. His return as quarterbacks coach will resonate strongly with alumni, recruits, and fans alike.
High-Level Pedigree
He brings a rare blend of playing success (Heisman, nat’l champion) and coaching experience—from high school prep, NFL, SEC powerhouses, to player development.
Recruiting Advantage
Prospects will see Weinke’s Heisman story and NFL progression as tangible evidence that FSU can develop quarterbacks to their fullest. Recruits often respond to such bona fides.
On-Field Mentorship
Quarterbacks will benefit from having a coach who has excelled at every level. Weinke’s proven emphasis on fundamentals, decision-making, and fundamentals is exactly what a modern QB room craves.
Fan and Program Boost
This hire sends a clear message: FSU is serious about returning to elite status in the ACC and nationally. Hiring a quarterback legend shows intent beyond window-dressing.
Perspective from Recent FSU Alum & Fans
FSU fans have long admired Weinke’s accomplishments. On r/fsusports, some have debated bringing him back to revive the offense:
“Georgia Tech doesn’t run a particularly flashy offense, but damn they are efficient. Is it time to invite Chris back home?… He’s got a pretty extensive resume.”
There have been mixed reactions to his coaching stops (e.g. Georgia Tech), but most acknowledge his deep connection to the Seminole legacy:
“Who knows if he’s a realistic hire though. My feeling is he could easily land another HC job… He could help develop a QB.”
Looking Ahead: Florida State’s QB Room
With Weinke at the helm, expect:
Quarterback Fundamentals Improvement: Mechanics, footwork, dropbacks, and decision-making enhanced by Weinke’s NFL-level coaching expertise.
Recruiting Momentum: A boost as high school QBs attack FSU’s pipeline, enticed by learning directly from a legend.
Program Morale & Pride: Alumni and booster excitement continues to swell whenever legends return to the fold.
FSU’s new head coach (as of May 2025) described Weinke’s return succinctly:
“Bringing back a quarterback of Chris Weinke’s caliber to mentor our quarterbacks is a huge win for our program… I have no doubt that he will have a tremendous impact on our quarterbacks and our entire offense.”
“Florida State will always be a special place for me and my family… The opportunity to return … and to help develop the next generation of Seminole quarterbacks is a dream come true.”
His words reflect a genuine excitement to contribute to the place that shaped his greatest football successes.
Chris Weinke’s hiring as Florida State’s quarterbacks coach transcends a simple coaching move—it’s a homecoming of a Heisman-winning legend returning to fulfill a vital role. From his unparalleled collegiate achievements to his tenured experience across NFL, SEC, and player-development levels, Weinke brings an unmatched combination of leadership, coaching acumen, and deep Seminole loyalty.
For the Seminoles, he represents not only a link to the glory years but also a strategic hire geared to revitalize the program’s quarterback play, recruiting pipelines, and national competitiveness. As the next phase of FSU football begins, having their legendary #16 back under center—this time not as a player, but as the leader of their quarterbacks—signals a new chapter in their ongoing quest to reclaim college football prominence.
Leave a Reply