The departures of key playmakers from the running back room became a major concern for the USF Bulls at the end of the 2024 season. As USF works to reestablish a dominant ground game, Cartevious Norton arrived in Tampa ready to take charge and make an immediate impact. The spring transfer brings size, experience, and proven production to a retooled offense – and the timing of his arrival may have been perfect for USF.
USF Player Profile: Cartevious Norton
- Position: Running Back
- USF Bulls
- 5’11” 225 lbs
- Year: Senior
Who is Cartevious Norton?
The Waycross, Georgia native is known around the locker room as “Tay” or “C-5” (a nod to his jersey number). A product of Ware County High School, the powerful back was ranked a three-star recruit by both Rivals and 247 sports. As a senior, he led his team to a 9-2 record and a state playoff appearance, racking up 1266 yards and 16 touchdowns on 153 carries. On3 ranked him the No. 61 running back nationally, while 247 sports placed him at No. 72.
He initially committed to Iowa State, choosing the Cyclones over multiple offers – including ones from South Florida and Buffalo.
College Career History
Despite battling injuries during his collegiate debut, Norton pushed through and finished the 2022 season with 312 yards and two touchdowns on 87 carries. In his second and final year with the Cyclones, he took the field in 11 games. He tallied 343 yards, three rushing touchdowns, and three receptions – including a season-high 59-yard performance against Iowa.
Norton entered the transfer portal and landed at Charlotte 49ers for the 2024 season, where he delivered his best collegiate campaign yet. Appearing in all 12 games, he recorded 525 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns on 129 carries.
While Norton thrived individually with Charlotte, he opted to transfer once again. His decision to do so was fueled by dissatisfaction of how the program was being run. More notably, firing their head coach midseason, which ironically took place shortly after their 59-24 loss to USF.
What’s even more ironic is that Cartevious ended up nowhere else but South Florida, a school that wasn’t even on his radar the first time around.
A New Leader in the Backfield
Norton may not be the loudest voice on the field, but he doesn’t need to be. He’s the type of leader that lets his play and preparation do the talking. From the moment he arrived at USF for spring training, his presence was felt, and the message was clear – he was ready to get to work.
While he’s shown he can be successful in varying programs, Cartevious continues to approach every rep at USF with the mindset that he has something to prove, and he’s not taking anything for granted.
Throughout spring practices, Norton quickly emerged as a valuable asset in the backfield. He showcased having the ability to beat various defensive spreads, and be a consistent downhill runner. For an offense that is craving stability and production, Cartevious is embracing every opportunity to be that go-to player for the Bulls.
2025 Outlook
With his veteran presence and mature approach, Cartevious Norton has established his position as a leader for USF and its ground game heading into this upcoming season. He brings a physical edge that wears down defenses and the ability to finish crucial drives in the red zone. Expect him to handle short-yardage work and occasionally breaking free to take off downfield.
Given his history, and as with all running backs especially, injury is definitely a concern. But as long as he stays healthy, Norton has the potential to solidify himself as one of the most impactful transfers in the AAC this season.
Most importantly, Cartevious offers reliability and experience, leading a room of younger, less-tested running backs. Norton will be joining forces with Oklahoma transfer Sam Franklin, along with returners Alvon Issac, Nykahi Davenport, and Jaylen Johnson.
His presence gives the Bulls a clear leader in the run game – and sets the foundation for a backfield that’s aiming to shine once again.
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Mackenzie Neglia
Currently a student at the University of South Florida, raised in a New York football family. Always looking for a new book, coffee shop, and travel spot.