FSU Football: Projecting Impact Freshman in Latest Recruiting Class

Somewhat likely to make an impact year one

Because FSU signed such a talented class, there will be newcomers making plays in the season opener against Alabama. Others, however, will take a little longer to break through.

One example could be Ja’len Parks. He’s a high four-star defensive lineman out of Newberry, Florida. Parks was an Army-All American, and had a great week of practice for the event.

Yet, when Florida State announced him on signing day, they interestingly did so as a defensive lineman. He played mostly defensive tackle in high school. Some may see this as a knock on Parks and say he doesn’t have the size to play on the interior. To me, it’s a positive. There are different ways Charles Kelly could decide to use him. He’s an explosive player, and could be versatile enough to get some first-year reps at defensive end. I think he’ll work his way onto the field at some point during his freshman campaign.

Another player in a first-year predicament is linebacker Adonis Thomas. Thomas is a former Under Armour All-American, and proved that he’s still got that high level of talent during his one year in junior college.

Though he was a major addition to the class, his impact will be as a backup and special-teamer during his first year. FSU usually plays two linebackers at a time. Seniors Matthew Thomas and Roderrick Hoskins return as the starters, so there’s not much playing time to spare.

Cornerback Stanford Samuels III comes to mind as well. The presumed starters at his position are Tavarus McFadden (eight interceptions last year) and Levonta Taylor (former superstar recruit who performed well in limited time as a freshman). Look for Samuels to challenge for the starting job opposite McFadden, but ultimately provide quality depth as a freshman. His time will come.