Long Time FSU Defensive Line Coach Odell Haggins Comments On Darrell Jackson's Waiver

"He's part of this football team. He is part of our family. We got his back."

Florida State's long-tenured defensive line coach Odell Haggins has seen a lot during his time as a former football player and National Championship-winning coach in Tallahassee. 

There has been a controversy brewing over the past month, drawing attention from politicians and state officials over a recent decision passed down by the NCAA on one of his players, Darrell Jackson's hardship waiver request, which was denied.

READ MORE: The State of Florida Continues to Urge NCAA on Darrell Jackson's Waiver Decision

"Keep working. He's part of this football team. He is part of our family. We got his back." Haggins said when asked about the decision during his post-practice interview.

Jackson transferred from Miami in the offseason to be with his former high school teammate, defensive tackle Joshua Farmer, but more importantly, to take care of his ailing mother, which geographically was much harder to do where he was in Coral Gables. 

Alongside head coach Mike Norvell, state senators, state officials, and family support, Farmer also expressed his feelings on the situation. 

"It was really tough. We wanted to play together; that's my best friend from high school," Farmer said. "It was tough, man but s--t, we'll get another year next year."

With everybody rallying in his corner, his teammates and coaches hope the extra attention garnered will help sway the NCAA in Jackson's favor.

"The Senate and everybody," Farmer said. "I think there's a good chance they'll overturn it. I hope so. I would like to play with him."

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