FSU football: 5 blue-chip players from 2017 that need to shine in 2020
By Kelvin Hunt
Leonard Warner
The linebacker position saw an uptick in play last season, but still has a long way to go in terms of getting back to FSU’s prime years.
Enter Leonard Warner III, who’s a former four-star recruit from 2017. Warner was the No. 174 ranked player overall, and No. 7 ranked inside linebacker in the class.
The good thing with Warner is he saw his production increase big time in 2019.
He’s coming off his most productive season with 57 total tackles, two sacks, four QB hurries and 3.5 tackles for loss.
That’s an increase from 38 tackles and 1.5 tackles for loss in 2018. He’ll never be great in coverage but needs to continue to improve upon triggering downhill against the run and filling the right gaps.
The increase in overall tackles and tackles for loss is a good sign, but the Noles need more splash plays from him at his size.
It’ll be interesting to see how FSU defensive coordinator Adam Fuller will use him in his defense. Also, will we see an uptick in production with coaching from new linebacker coach Chris Marve?