FSU Football Spring Cornerback Preview: Talent-Rich And Ready To Turn Heads
A consistent hallmark of FSU’s gridiron prowess has been its formidable defensive backfield, boasting iconic names like Deion Sanders, Terrell Buckley, Jalen Ramsey, and Derwin James.
However, as is the nature of collegiate sports, the departure of standout defensive backs post the 2023 season, coupled with the emergence of fresh talent, presents both challenges and opportunities for the team’s cornerback unit.
Departures:
Renardo Green (NFL) and Jarrian Jones (NFL)
Green and Jones, stalwart starters for the Seminoles in recent seasons, bid farewell to their college careers with impressive senior campaigns. Green’s impact was evident with 43 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 0.5 sacks, 13 pass deflections, and an interception, securing him Second-Team All-ACC honors. Meanwhile, Jones earned conference honorable mention with his versatile stat line, including 25 tackles, five tackles for loss, three interceptions, and a defensive touchdown.
Returners:
FSU’s cornerback corps boasts a wealth of returning talent, including seasoned players such as redshirt seniors Greedy Vance and Fentrell Cypress II, senior Kevin Knowles II, junior Azareye’h Thomas, and sophomore Quindarrius Jones. Additionally, redshirt freshmen Edwin Joseph and Ja’Bril Rawls bring promise and potential to the mix.
Vance immediately made his mark in 2022 with three interceptions and five passes defended, continuing his stellar performance in 2023 with another interception and multiple passes defended. Cypress II, known for his consistency, notched 40 tackles, eight pass breakups, and a crucial forced fumble that shifted momentum in a critical game against Pitt.
Knowles, a dependable presence at nickel, contributed significantly with 31 tackles and three pass breakups. Thomas showcased his potential with standout performances despite limited starts, while Jones gained valuable experience in a deep cornerback rotation. Rawls, though primarily on the scout team, displayed flashes of talent and determination during practice sessions.
New Additions:
FSU’s cornerback lineup welcomes notable additions, including Alabama transfer Earl Little Jr., and promising four-star recruits Charles Lester III, Cai Bates, and Jamari Howard. Little Jr., with his experience from Alabama and impressive high school credentials, adds depth and skill to the roster. Lester, Bates, and Howard, all highly regarded prospects, inject fresh energy and talent into the cornerback rotation.
Projected Depth Chart:
The Seminoles’ cornerback depth chart is poised to feature a blend of experience and potential, with players like Azareye’h Thomas, Ja’Bril Rawls, Fentrell Cypress II, Quindarrius Jones, and newcomers Charles Lester III, Cai Bates, and Jamari Howard vying for key roles.
As spring practice commences, FSU’s cornerback unit is brimming with promise and potential. With a mix of seasoned veterans and talented newcomers, the team’s defensive capabilities are set to soar under the guidance of Coach Patrick Surtain Sr. Leadership from veterans like Cypress and Thomas, coupled with the integration of transfers like Little Jr., is expected to fortify the team’s defensive strategy.
The infusion of youth and energy from players like Jones and Rawls, along with the addition of highly touted recruits, sets the stage for a dynamic and competitive spring session. With ample talent and coaching expertise, FSU’s cornerback group is poised to make waves and assert its dominance in the upcoming season.