The front seven for the Florida State defense in 2015 will have some issues when it comes to experience and depth, but the strength appears to be the secondary. FSU lost a pair of starting cornerbacks early to the NFL Draft, but that contingent has reloaded in a big way.
The Seminoles had some struggles a season ago against the pass, but little of it had to do with a lack of talent. While P.J. Williams and Ronald Darby were each excellent players for FSU last season, the secondary could still be better this season. Here are the names to know in the Florida State secondary:
The Headliner
Jalen Ramsey, Junior (Cornerback)
The face of the Florida State defense, Jalen Ramsey moves back to cornerback from his star position. Ramsey finished with two interceptions a season ago for the Seminoles, but did just about everything else. Ramsey ranked in the top 3 on the team in tackles for loss, sacks, pass break-ups and forced fumbles. At 6’1″ and 200 pounds, Ramsey is as physical as they come in the secondary and looks to be in for an All-American season.
The Sleeper
Lamarcus Brutus, Redshirt Senior (Safety)
After being used primarily as a special teams player for three years, Lamarcus Brutus emerged late last season with interceptions against Florida and Georgia Tech. Brutus is expected to be a bigger part of the defense this season and has a very good football IQ. Brutus is expected to split time at safety with Tyler Hunter.
The Future
Derwin James, Freshman (Safety)
One of the highest rated safety prospects ever, Derwin James is an enforcer. James can run like a cornerback and hit like a linebacker and has the best chance of any FSU freshman to make a huge impact in 2015. James gives the Seminoles a lot to be excited about for a long time.
Other Names to Know
Nate Andrews, Junior (Safety)
The team leader in interceptions in each of the last two seasons, Nate Andrews has quietly been a steady force for FSU in the secondary. While Andrews has seven career picks, his biggest strength may be his versatility. Andrews will be used in all sorts of ways this season including in a position similar to a traditional linebacker.
Tyler Hunter, Redshirt Senior (Safety)
The most veteran member of the Florida State secondary, Tyler Hunter looks to emerge as a leader on defense. Hunter has four career interceptions and bounced back from a career-threatening neck injury last season to finish with 65 tackles. Perhaps Hunter’s most important role this season will be as a mentor to the younger members of the secondary.
Marquez White, Junior (Cornerback)
A former FSU basketball player, Marquez White looks to make the most of his opportunity as the team’s second corner. White has one career interception in limited time, but has made strides this offseason and hopes to become a serviceable part of the defense.
Trey Marshall, Sophomore (Safety)
At 6’0″ and 210 pounds, sophomore Trey Marshall is expected to be a bigger part of the FSU defense in 2015. Marshall finished with 12 tackles in limited time last season, but like Lamarcus Brutus, emerged as the season went on. Marshall has a ton of potential and should get the chance to show some of that off this season.
Ryan Green, Junior (Cornerback)
A converted running back, Ryan Green is expected to push guys like Marquez White and Malique Jackson for playing time at cornerback opposite Jalen Ramsey. Green has no experience in the secondary, but impressed coaches in the spring. With a loaded backfield, a move to the secondary may be the best chance for the former 4-star prospect to contribute at FSU.
Overview
The secondary for Florida State has a nice mix of youth and experience while being loaded with talent. Jalen Ramsey is one of the nation’s best players while Tyler Hunter and Nate Andrews will provide versatility and leadership. The defensive backfield is not only a position FSU should feel good about heading into this season, but long-term as well. Freshmen like Derwin James, Tarvarus McFadden, Marcus Lewis and Calvin Brewton are all guys with the potential to contribute right away. The biggest issue for the FSU secondary may be finding reps for everyone, which is a pretty good problem to have.
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FSU Preseason Position Breakdown: Defensive Line
FSU Preseason Position Breakdown: Secondary
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