5 FSU football defenders that impressed me in the season opener versus Alabama

Florida State's defense was on fire versus Alabama.
Aug 30, 2025; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive back Earl Little Jr. (0) looks on against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Doak S. Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-Imagn Images
Aug 30, 2025; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive back Earl Little Jr. (0) looks on against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Doak S. Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-Imagn Images | Melina Myers-Imagn Images
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DB JA'BRIL RAWLS

Florida State's fan base rolled its eyes when it saw defensive coordinator Tony White refer to redshirt sophomore defensive back Ja'Bril Rawls as an NFL prospect. Personally, I was a huge fan of Rawls when the Seminoles picked up the three-star prospect out of Pensacola, Florida.

However, I know that individuals are tired of the three-star prospects that were being picked up by head football coach Mike Norvell. Fans were fed up with transfers being grabbed instead of talented high school recruits being developed.

I realize that defensive backs Azareye'h Thomas, Fentrell Cypress II, and Kevin Knowles II are in the NFL now. However, the Seminoles needed the youngsters to step up at the position room. Rawls had six tackles and one pass deflection in the contest versus Alabama.

We talked about Earl Little Jr. bringing the physicality, Ja'Bril Rawls was a seeking missile every time that the Crimson Tide pass catchers tried to go upfield. I know that wide receiver Germie Bernard had eight receptions for 146 yards, but Ryan Williams had five catches for 30 yards, and Isaiah Horton had one catch for 6 yards. It was not a great outing for them, and Rawls had something to do with that.