NORFOLK, Va. – The Norfolk State football team continues to build a strong defensive unit, signing two Division I transfers on Friday afternoon.
 
The Spartans welcomed safety Tyler Jones and linebacker Kendric Nowling to the program, the latter bringing experience from the FBS level.
 
Nowling comes to Norfolk State from Eastern Michigan, where he played a key role on the Eagles roster. The redshirt senior registered 12 tackles last season, appearing in 10 games. He recorded a season-best three solo tackles against Saint Francis.
 
Nowling made a strong impact on special teams as well at Eastern Michigan, scoring his first touchdown in 2023 by returning on onside kick attempt 44 yards for a score against Kent State. The play took six seconds and stands as the quickest touchdown scored to open a game in program history.
 
Jones previously spent one season at Northern Arizona, playing all 13 games last year. He finished the season with eight total tackles, including an assisted tackle for loss.
 
Jones came to Northern Arizona from Mt. San Antonio College, playing in 10 games as a true freshman. He racked up 21 tackles in 2023, recording three interceptions and one defensive touchdown.
 
Norfolk State opens the 2025 season at home against Towson on Aug. 28.
 
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