Florida State has had success developing versatile defensive backs throughout the Mike Norvell Era, cross-training at corner, safety and nickel and turning them into NFL draft picks. Since 2021, FSU has had five defensive backs drafted (Hamsah Nasirildeen, Asante Samuel Jr., Jammie Robinson, Jarrian Jones and Renardo Green).
The Seminoles coaches have accumulated a wealth of talent, sliding players around to improve awareness of the defensive scheme but also find where they fit best. FSU allowed 179.7 passing yards per game (11th in the FBS) in 2023, and it was in large part due to a fierce pass rush but also the secondary’s coverage and ability to knock away passes.
While FSU will miss drafted corners like Jones and Green, as well as Akeem Dent, there is a healthy mix of veterans with experience as well as blue-chip recruits like Charles Lester who are itching to get their opportunities.
Azareye’h Thomas had 10 pass breakups, among the top 5 in the ACC, despite not starting until the bowl game. His ascension has been steady and impressive. Thomas is a confident corner but far from a headliner in a room that includes a two-time All-ACC selection (Fentrell Cypress), a capable eraser (Shyheim Brown), a takeaway machine (Conrad Hussey) and a nickel with SEC experience (Earl Little Jr.).
Let's take a look at the defensive backs:
floridastate.rivals.com
The Seminoles coaches have accumulated a wealth of talent, sliding players around to improve awareness of the defensive scheme but also find where they fit best. FSU allowed 179.7 passing yards per game (11th in the FBS) in 2023, and it was in large part due to a fierce pass rush but also the secondary’s coverage and ability to knock away passes.
While FSU will miss drafted corners like Jones and Green, as well as Akeem Dent, there is a healthy mix of veterans with experience as well as blue-chip recruits like Charles Lester who are itching to get their opportunities.
Azareye’h Thomas had 10 pass breakups, among the top 5 in the ACC, despite not starting until the bowl game. His ascension has been steady and impressive. Thomas is a confident corner but far from a headliner in a room that includes a two-time All-ACC selection (Fentrell Cypress), a capable eraser (Shyheim Brown), a takeaway machine (Conrad Hussey) and a nickel with SEC experience (Earl Little Jr.).
Let's take a look at the defensive backs:
TheOsceola - FSU preseason preview: Defensive backs
Experienced and deep despite losing two draft picks, FSU's secondary could again be a strength.
floridastate.rivals.com
