5 FSU football players who could be dark-horse contributors during the 2024 season

DE AARON HESTER

Florida State has redshirt junior defensive end Patrick Payton returning for another season in 2024. This is likely his final season as he has his sights set on the NFL. Payton has gained weight to his frame where he is now listed at 254 pounds.

The Seminoles will need Payton to emerge as a double-digit sack contributor now that Jared Verse is no longer in Tallahassee. Florida State also added Georgia's Marvin Jones Jr. and Oregon State's Sione Lolohea who are expected to be heavily in the rotation as well.

Let's not forget about veteran reserve Byron Turner Jr. who returns for another season. As we know, this coaching staff is not afraid to rotate guys in the defensive end room. They usually play the long game by preserving the pass rushers until the end of the year when they need them the most.

Turner Jr. could be a great option at the defensive end. However, I believe that redshirt sophomore Aaron Hester could contend for a spot in the rotation. He only appeared in the game versus North Alabama last season, but he flashed in the Spring Showcase in April and his body has been transformed where he is listed at 244 pounds. This could be someone who gets better and better as the year progresses.