FSU football: 3 biggest needs in 2023 recruiting class
By Kelvin Hunt
Linebacker
The linebacker is another position the coaching staff failed to deliver on from the high school ranks in 2022. They only signed one linebacker in Omar Graham Jr. Just like the wide receivers, the coaching staff used the transfer portal to improve the position and likely added a player that will contribute more than any freshman they could have signed.
That player, Tatum Bethune, has two years of eligibility left but could declare for the NFL Draft should he have a great season on the field in 2022. Kalen Deloach and Amari Gainer will be eligible for the NFL Draft as well after this season.
New linebackers coach and co-defensive coordinator Randy Shannon will have the task of signing at least three linebackers in the 2023 recruiting cycle. The 2023 high school rankings will change drastically, but currently, there are 13 blue-chip linebackers between Georgia and Florida.
FSU has offered nine of them so far, and more offers will go out as they continue to evaluate and learn as prospects emerge throughout the recruiting cycle. FSU could sign another linebacker from the transfer portal between now and the end of spring.
However, the linebacker position will be crucial to nail, with the possibilities of who could leave after the 2022 season.