Florida State football projected depth chart for defense: Who we think starts vs. Alabama

With fall camp beginning on July 30, Florida State football will get its first look at its 3-3-5 defense implemented by first-year defensive coordinator Tony White.

Some of the notable transfer players FSU acquired this offseason are James Williams, Elijah Herring, Stefon Thompson, Jayson Jenkins and Jeremiah Wilson.

After coming off a 2-10 season, Darrell Jackson, Shyheim Brown, Omar Graham Jr and Earl Little Jr are among the top returning starters on defense.

In this newly constructed defense, Mike Norvell expects the defense to be physically up to par as they prepare for Alabama in Week 1, which kicks off on Aug. 30 at 3:30 p.m. at Doak Campbell Stadium.

Here’s our projected depth chart on defense.

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Defensive line

Nov 23, 2024; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive lineman Darrell Jackson Jr. (6) prepares for the snap during the first quarter against the Charleston Southern Buccaneers at Doak S. Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-Imagn Images

1st: James Williams, Darrell Jackson, Daniel Lyons/Jayson Jenkins

Analysis: Jackson will be leading the defensive line. Williams, who has played in White’s 3-3-3-5 scheme, will be just as impactful.

It will be interesting to see how White and D-line coach Terrance Knighton will rotate the players, especially at the JACK position, which is one of the defensive end spots. Other players to watch are Amaree Williams and freshman Kevin Wynn, who could also be key contributors.

More: FSU football’s Darrell Jackson, Earl Little Jr. tasked with being leaders for the Seminoles

Linebackers

DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA - OCTOBER 18: Omar Graham Jr. #9 of the Florida State Seminoles gestures after a play against the Duke Blue Devils during the first half of the game at Wallace Wade Stadium on October 18, 2024 in Durham, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) — DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA – OCTOBER 18: Omar Graham Jr. #9 of the Florida State Seminoles gestures after a play against the Duke Blue Devils during the first half of the game at Wallace Wade Stadium on October 18, 2024 in Durham, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)

Analysis: The linebacking corps is experienced with Juice Cryer, Graham, and Blake Nichelson returning and adding Herring and Thompson from the transfer portal to create depth, starting experience, and familiarity with the 3-3-5.

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Secondary

Florida State defensive back Quindarrius Jones (16) pushes Notre Dame tight end Mitchell Evans (88) out of bounds during a NCAA college football game at Notre Dame Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, in South Bend.

Cornerbacks

1st: Ja’Bril Rawls, Jeremiah Wilson, Quindarrius Jones
2nd: Charles Lester, Ricky Knight III, Cai Bates

Analysis: Adding Wilson in the secondary was a huge pickup for the Seminoles from the transfer portal. According to PFF, the Houston transfer rated at 83.7, which is the 10th best among cornerbacks.

He also generated four interceptions last year with the Cougars. Ja’Bril Rawls has been praised by coaches and teammates for his aggressiveness, and Quindarrius Jones remains in the mix for the starting role after picking it up last season.

Safeties/Rovers

Florida State University defensive back Edwin Joseph celebrates a tackle against Georgia Tech with defensive back Conrad Hussey on August 24, 2024, at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland. Mandatory Credit: Tom Maher/INPHO via USA TODAY Sports

2nd: K.J. Kirkland, Conrad Hussey, Ashlynd Barker

Analysis: With three safeties deep, it is interesting to see how White and his staff will manage this group.

Shyheim Brown is in his fifth season with the Seminoles, earning him seniority, but Little emerged as one of the team leaders on the overall defense.

Ever since he switched to safety full-time, Little has made strides and is expected to take a step forward at the Rover position.

Joseph flashed last season on defense and special teams, which will be intriguing to see how he adjusts in his new role. Don’t sleep on Conrad Hussey, K.J. Kirkland, and Ashlynd Barker, as all three have game experience and could fight their way into the rotation.

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