FSU football will enter its sixth spring practice in the Mike Norvell era later this week. It's arguably the most crucial spring practice in Mike Norvell's tenure.
This spring will be about competition and getting everyone up to speed with how the new coordinators at FSU like to do things from a schematic standpoint.
It's also the point where a few dark horse players will have the opportunity to make a move to prove they may become contributors in some capacity, even though they may be new or have been on the roster where most fans have probably forgotten about them.
Here are five dark horse players who could emerge this spring:
Aaron Hester-DL
The redshirt junior defensive lineman played in eight games and had 10 tackles last year. Hester probably fits Tony White's defense better than Adam Fuller's because he's not a defensive end with great size or first step. Hester has shown he's capable against the run, which is a priority for Tony White's defense. The injury to Jayson Jenkins could free up more reps and might allow Hester to emerge.
KJ Sampson-DL
The redshirt sophomore defensive lineman played in 11 games and had 10 tackles. He might be a forgotten name with Darrell Jackson Jr. and Daniel Lyons returning, plus all of the bodies FSU added from the transfer portal. However, Sampson flashes some tools and has good size. I anticipate spring practice having lots of physicality, but I wonder if they'll be cautious with some upperclassmen, which could free up some reps for someone like Sampson. FSU needs to build depth on the defensive front, and Sampson could be a part of that.
Ashlynd Barker-Safety/LB
The redshirt junior safety/linebacker played in 11 games last year and had 19 tackles. The safety position is important in Tony White's scheme and demands physical play. Barker checks in at 6'3" and 212 pounds. The safety positions have Shyheim Brown as the only proven veteran and needs to establish depth. Barker is a player who could emerge if he's willing to embrace that physicality needed.
Jordan Scott-WR
The JUCO product joined the team this spring and brings excellent size to the receiver room. We know Deuce Robinson will be a factor and is nearly the same size, but Scott can help create matchup issues if they are on the field at the same time. They could replace one another to give each other a breather when needed and should be big-time red zone threats. The receiver room has questions, and a strong spring could help Scott emerge as a guy for this team in 2025.
Jayvon Boggs-WR
FSU had a lot of inexperience at the slot position last season. Boggs is a freshman, but polished and reminds me somewhat of a young Rashad Greene, although much thicker. I don't expect that type of production from the freshman, but he has the tools to play earlier than most receivers. He's a guy who was committed to Gus Malzahn and UCF before flipping to FSU.
FSU has 31 new players from the high school ranks or portal who enrolled this spring. Plus there are others who have been on the team who could become dark horse players. That's the beauty of spring ball, and I love they all have a blank slate with a new coaching staff. The best will rise to the top and play. Spring camp starts on March 19th.