FSU Football Depth Chart: Projecting the starting lineup

By Kelvin Hunt | Aug 27, 2017

TALLAHASSEE, FL - OCTOBER 15: Quarterback Deondre Francois #12 of the Florida State Seminoles runs the ball by defensive lineman Duke Ejiofor #53 of the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Doak Campbell Stadium on October 15, 2016 in Tallahassee, Florida. The Florida State Seminoles defeated the Wake Forest Demon Deacons 17-6. (Photo by Michael Chang/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Chris Trotman/Getty Images)

Tight End

Projected Starter: Ryan Izzo
Back Up: Mavin Saunders
Rotation: Tre McKitty

Redshirt junior Ryan Izzo remains the top choice to start at tight end in 2017. Izzo is the best combination of run blocker and pass catcher at the position and saw a bit more production in the passing game last season than the previous year.

Mavin Saunders saw an increased role last season and could make the next step this season. He’s a big athletic tight end, but not quite the run blocker Izzo is at this point.

True freshman and early enrollee Tre McKitty could see playing time this season because of the shortage of wide receivers on the roster.

He’s huge and would create mismatches against smaller defensive backs and linebackers. We could see more tight ends flexed out wide formations to take advantage of this group. Naseir Upshur will look to contribute in his sophomore season after using last season learning the offense, probably more of an H-back role.

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