FSU football: 5 biggest questions going into 2022 fall camp
By Kelvin Hunt
Pass Rush
FSU football was in a similar spot last season, with transfers Jermaine Johnson and Keir Thomas coming in to boost the pass rush.
The only problem is both had question marks. Johnson was largely unproven although he had flashed at spring camp, and Thomas had dealt with injuries before and after he got to FSU.
Those guys proved to be two of the most productive defensive ends in recent memory and helped improve the FSU defense tremendously. Both have departed, which opens up a new lane for players like Jared Verse, Dennis Briggs, Patrick Payton, Derrick McLendon, and others.
Who’s going to separate themselves from the pack? The odds are favorite would probably be Briggs and Verse, but McLendon got valuable experience last year and was somewhat productive in limited snaps.
How much regression should be expected? After all, Jermaine Johnson was an NFL First-Round Draft pick and ACC Defensive Player of the Year.
Keir Thomas was a undrafted free agent signee. I’ll be looking to see who flashes and whose name I hear the most from coaches and players throughout fall camp. If the Noles can find a consistent pass rush in 2022? This FSU defense will have the potential to be filthy.