FSU football: 5 dark horse players who could emerge in 2024 spring camp

Ashlynd Barker

The safety position has some question marks, with Akeem Dent heading to play football professionally. Veteran Shyheim Brown returns, but there's little proven depth behind him. Conrad Hussey got a big push as a freshman last year, but Barker appeared in all 14 games. He had 11 tackles, one sack, and had five of his tackles in the Orange Bowl. What I like about Barker is he arrived at FSU physically ready to play and checked in at 6'3" and 210 pounds. He also seemed to get more playing time as the season progressed.

Hussey will likely be a factor opposite of Brown, but playing time should be available with FSU rotating several guys on the backend. The Noles will need a physical enforcer similar to the Jammie Robinson role from 2021 and 2022. FSU has had some bigger safeties over the past decade, with players like Derwin James and Hamsah Nasirildeen who were incredibly productive and went on to play in the NFL. As Barker gains more experience, I wouldn't be too surprised if he carved out a role in this defense.