FSU Football: Three positions Noles need to pursue in the transfer portal

TALLAHASSEE, FL - DECEMBER 2: A general view of a Florida State Seminoles Helmet on the field before the game against the Louisiana Monroe Warhawks at Doak Campbell Stadium on Bobby Bowden Field on December 2, 2017 in Tallahassee, Florida. Florida State defeated Louisiana Monroe 42 to 10. (Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images) /

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Defensive End

FSU football fans breathed a sigh of relief as skilled pass rusher Jared Verse announced that he would be returning to Florida State for the 2023 season.

Verse had 48 total tackles (17 tackles for loss) and nine sacks last season. Redshirt freshman Patrick Payton also showcased signs of potential when he had 31 total tackles (six tackles for loss) and five sacks in 2022 while splitting reps with veteran Derrick McLendon II.

However, during this offseason, McLendon II opted to enter the transfer portal and ultimately landed at Colorado.

Fortunately, the Seminoles acquired redshirt junior defensive end Gilber Edmond (39 total tackles, nine tackles for a loss, and two sacks in 2022) from South Carolina. His arrival might have contributed to McLendon’s departure too.

In terms of other defensive end talent on the roster, the coaching staff seems to rave about the potential of redshirt sophomore Byron Turner Jr, who has suffered his fair share of injuries during his time in Tallahassee.

Can Florida State be able to rely on the services of Edmond and Turner Jr. to be their backup defensive ends?

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