FSU Football: What Derwin James’ Absence Means For The Defense
By Jason Parker
With Derwin James likely missing several games for FSU football following surgery on his knee, we break down what it means for the rest of the defense.
It was the moment that kept FSU football fans holding their collective breath for the last 48 hours. Monday, the news was finally revealed from head coach Jimbo Fisher regarding star safety and team leader Derwin James.
James went down with an apparent knee injury during the third quarter of Saturday’s blowout win over Charleston Southern. There has been plenty of back and forth over why James was still in the game with the Seminoles up 42-6 over their FCS opponent.
It was the most eagerly anticipated moment of his weekly press conference as Fisher dropped the news that the All-American candidate would be out this week against Louisville and likely for several more games – but it could have been worse:
Fisher on Derwin James: Torn cartilage in his knee. Not an ACL tear, no structural damage.
— Tim Linafelt (@Tim_Linafelt) September 12, 2016
Fisher doesn’t have a timetable on Derwin James’ return. He’s having surgery right now. Return depends on recovery.
— Tim Linafelt (@Tim_Linafelt) September 12, 2016
Now that we know what the situation is going to be as the ‘Noles take on Lamar Jackson and the Louisville Cardinals this weekend, here are the three things it means for the Seminoles’ defense when they hit the road Saturday.
Next: FSU's Front Seven Has to Step Up