DJ Uiagalelei Declines Invitation to Attend ACC Kickoff

In an unexpected turn of events, Florida State quarterback DJ Uiagalelei announced on Tuesday that he has declined an invitation to attend ACC Kickoff later this month. This annual event serves as a platform for players and coaches to interact with the media and preview the upcoming college football season.

In a statement shared on his social media accounts, Uiagalelei expressed his belief that the representatives from Florida State should be players who played a key role in the Seminoles' ACC championship victory in 2023. He also highlighted the fact that he had already attended the ACC media event twice during his tenure as Clemson's quarterback.

Having received the invitation from the conference office to represent Florida State, Uiagalelei expressed gratitude and acknowledged that being considered as one of the top players in the conference was an honor. However, he firmly stated that the players who contributed to the success of the team in the previous year should be given the opportunity to be recognized at the event.

Uiagalelei emphasized that the Florida State team is more than just its quarterback, and he expressed excitement for his teammates who will have the chance to experience the ACC Kickoff. He asserted that the players who helped bring the program back to the top of the ACC should be celebrated and acknowledged for their contributions.

Although the ACC has not yet announced the players scheduled to attend the media days, it is expected to do so next week. The four-day ACC Kickoff is set to begin on July 22, with Florida State, Georgia Tech, and SMU taking the stage on the first day.

Uiagalelei's decision comes after a journey that saw him start his college football career at Clemson in 2020, then transfer to Oregon State for the 2023 season. During his time at Oregon State, he recorded impressive stats, throwing for 2,638 yards, 21 touchdowns, and only seven interceptions. He recently transferred to Florida State this past January, and he is expected to start in the Week 0 opener against Georgia Tech in Ireland.

While the news of Uiagalelei declining the invitation may come as a surprise to some, it highlights his humility and respect for his fellow teammates. It also sheds light on the camaraderie and unity within the Florida State football program, as they aim to build on their past success and further establish themselves as a dominant force in the ACC.

Now, the college football world waits in anticipation for the ACC to unveil the lineup of players who will attend the ACC Kickoff as the conference gears up for another exciting season of games, rivalries, and championship aspirations.