Signee update: OL Mike Arnold focused on early impact at FSU
Florida State loaded up on offensive linemen with its 2016 recruiting class, and that group included the No. 1 prep school player in the country: Milford Academy (N.Y.) offensive tackle Mike Arnold, who is originally from Winter Haven, Fla.
The 6-foot-6, 330-pound lineman originally committed to Virginia Tech out of high school, but after a year of prep school, he received his dream offer from Florida State. Arnold immediately committed to the Seminoles and will have four years of eligibility remaining.
In our latest Signee Update, Arnold talks about his visit to Orlando for the FSU spring game, the impact he expects to have as a freshman and more.
Position: Left Tackle
Redshirt: TBD
Jersey preference: No. 72
Roommate: Baveon Johnson
Major: Business
Arrival Date: May 9
School that finished second: Virginia Tech
It didn't work out for Mike Arnold and Florida State the first time he went through the recruiting process, but now that he's officially a Seminole, some believe he could have the most upside of any lineman in FSU's impressive class.
Arnold actually attended an FSU camp three years ago, but at the time the 'Noles didn't have a spot for him, so he ended up signing with Virginia Tech. When academic issues forced Arnold to attend prep school for a year, Florida State's coaches weren't about to let him get away again. They made him an offer during an unofficial visit, and he jumped on board.
Since that time, Arnold has been putting in the work to make sure he's ready to make an impact as a freshman. Arnold stated that he's coming in as a left tackle, but he could play a number of positions if asked.
In an interview with Warchant, Arnold discussed some of the things that have kept him active this spring.
"Just basic training, learning the plays," Arnold said, noting that OL coach Rick Trickett sent him part of the offensive playbook after National Signing Day. "I mean, it's nothing hard. Pretty much stuff I've already been doing, at least with most of the things. But I've been doing a lot of running in groves, and also playing basketball to stay active. I'm ready for the summer camp."
That time is coming very soon. Arnold actually arrived in Tallahassee this past weekend to enroll in summer school.
It's just the latest big step in what has been an exciting few months for Arnold. Just a few weeks ago, he went to Orlando to take in the Seminoles' spring game, and he came away impressed.
"We have a really good group of guys," Arnold said. "Watching the line, they got a good push, and I see that we all will make each other better. ... We have 17 guys that could be starters."
While Arnold has championship aspirations for his future at Florida State, he said he also knows the type of work and dedication it's going to take this summer to become a contributor. As long as he puts in the effort, Arnold is convinced he won't have to wait long to make his mark.
"My expectations are to be a leader and to be in the front line come Sept 5 [against Ole Miss]," he said.
Other 2016 Signee updates
OL Josh Ball: Excited about 'ridiculous' OL class
OL Baveon Johnson: Not waiting to put in extra work
RB Amir Rasul: Miami product brings more than just speed to FSU
TE Naseir Upshur: Philadelphia product's love of FSU grows after unique commitment
LB Keion Joyner: Joyner finally makes his awaited visit, talks grades, FSU, more
WR Keith Gavin: "I feel it's my turn now"
LB Dontavious Jackson: Is he FSU's missing piece at LB?
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