LB ELIJAH HERRING
Florida State had hard-hitting linebackers in its school history, such as Derrick Brooks, Marvin Jones, Ernie Sims, Nigel Bradham, Telvin Smith, etc.
The Seminoles are used to having hard-hitting defenders with bad intentions. I was a huge fan of having Kalen DeLoach and Tatum Bethune during the 2023 season, who were tackling machines. With that said, Justin Cryer, Omar Graham Jr, Blake Nichelson, DJ Lundy, and Cam Riley were solid pieces in 2024.
However, Florida State did add former Memphis and Tennessee linebacker transfer Elijah Herring. The senior has had a productive career that involves doing whatever it takes to get the job done.
I believe that Herring will have to play a big part in the defense, especially when it comes to run support and pass coverage. If the veteran linebacker transfer can give opposing offenses something to think about, it could be a long way in making a difference on the new mindset of the unit.