National Signing Day: Position Grades

Linebackers

The ‘Noles signed two excellent linebackers for the 2015 cycle.

Sh’Mar Kilby-Lane – Kilby-Lane is a punishing hitter. Numerous times, he comes out of nowhere on special teams and destroys opponents. He’s excellent in run support, showing amazing burst into the backfield to tackle RBs and sack QBs. Kilby-Lane also has the ability to be a prescence in pass coverage. The ‘Noles get a very dynamic player in Kilby-Lane, as he is a very good player in all facets of the game. Not every guy can avoid a redshirt, but I expect him to find a niche on special-teams right away.

Lorenzo Phillips – Rated as the No. 1 JUCO Linebacker prospect, Phillips is a monster off the edge. Phillips played the last two seasons at East Mississippi Community College, this season recording 14 sacks, 52 tackles, 2 FR, and 2 TD as his team won the JUCO Championship. He will have two years of eligibility remaining at Florida State.

Grade – B+. The ‘Noles could have used a bit more depth at the position, but this is nevertheless a very stout unit.