The FSU defense has question marks, but it's also got a lot of potential.
Tony White's unit isn't going to beat teams with size this season. There's not a 340-pound guy in the middle like Darrell Jackson Jr. was. However, they can win with speed, effort and ability to fly to the football. The defensive line is going to be the key as several guys will be taking on bigger roles and expected to produce. There are some known quantities, like Mandrell Desir, but there are other players that can take advantage of the opportunity to see the field more.
Here are three defensive linemen that FSU will need to step up in 2026:
Florida State defensive coordinator Tony White sees progress in a young, committed defensive line this spring, aiming for a physical edge. https://t.co/J3DpDWqxb6
— NoleSports.com (@NoleSports) April 8, 2026
The forgotten son: Darryl Desir, DE/DL
Don't be surprised if the "other" Desir gets some serious run this year and emerges as a full-time starter in the second-half of the season. If things go as I believe they might, it's going to be on Tony White to get the Desir twins on the field at the same time. Because Mandrell Desir was so good as a freshman, it seems like some have kind of dismissed his brother and that's a mistake. Darryl Desir wasn't bad as a true freshman...he was simply a true freshman that actually got a lot of playing time and produced better than many teenagers would.
The veteran with more to give: Deante McCray, DL
McCray is one of those guys that isn't necessarily great at one thing, but he's good enough at several things. In this sort of 3-3-5 base/multiple scheme, there are guys that need to step into different roles. McCray is the best candidate to be that guy. He was fine last season, but with more snaps and a greater role, McCray could have a chance to be a major contributor this season. FSU will need more from him.
The comeback candidate: Deamontae Diggs, DE/DL
Diggs probably isn't in line to be a starter, but he looked like he was going to have a considerable role on passing downs before suffering a season-ending injury. If Diggs can stay healthy, he can probably carve out a similar role for him this season. FSU is going to need some guys with experience that can get to the quarterback and Diggs fits that bill.
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