FSU football: 12 players to watch for in the 2022 spring game
By Kelvin Hunt
Defense
Renardo Green-The departure of Jarvis Brownlee has opened up a spot at the field corner position, with Green positioning himself in a great spot to replace him. He’s been consistent in spring camp after getting healthy. I want to see him in coverage, which was a weakness for Brownlee.
Derrick McLendon-I’ve said it before, but McLendon might be my sleeper on defense for a breakout season. He has a different confidence and his expectations are different in his third year with the program. FSU needs a consistent pass rush at defensive end and McLendon will look to establish himself as a primary candidate. I’ll be looking to see if he has any burst off the edge and how he defends against the run.
Greedy Vance-The Louisville transfer has had a solid spring camp since joining the program a few months ago. He’s battling Green and others for the spot at field corner, but we could also see him at the nickel position. I’ll be looking to see which position they place him and how he performs. The secondary will play lots of guys and players that can be effective at more than one position will be valuable for depth.
Demorie Tate-I feel like I’m talking about a unicorn when it comes to Demorie Tate. The highest-rated signee in the 2020 recruiting class has yet to become a contributor. However, there are signs he’s beginning to emerge into that role. He has all of the physical tools and has battled some injuries since signing. If Tate could become a guy that plays meaningful snaps, this secondary could be better than I originally thought.
Patrick Payton-I mentioned the need for a defensive pass rush and Payton is someone that has potential to fit the bill. The only question is the 2022 season too soon for it to happen? He’s put on some good weight and has flashed at practice several times. I’ll be looking to see him off the edge, hoping he shows the ability to get after the quarterback.
Azareye’h Thomas-Thomas is one of my favorite signees from the 2022 class. A lengthy freshman with excellent hips that’s already turning heads in spring camp. I’m curious to see how he stacks up against FSU receivers. Is he a only a cover guy or will he come downhill and lay the wood in run game defense?