FSU football depth chart projection following spring and transfer portal

Cornerback

Starters: AZ Thomas, Fentrell Cypress, Earl Little Jr.(Nickel)

Top Backups: Quindarrius Jones, Ja'Bril Rawls, Kevin Knowles, Edwin Joseph, Charles Lester, Cai Bates

AZ Thomas will be one of the top cornerbacks in the nation and Fentrell Cypress is a former All-ACC defensive back in his second year in Adam Fuller's defense. Both played a ton of snaps last year in what was the best secondary nationally. Earl Little Jr. looks to have locked up the Nickel position with Greedy Vance opting to transfer to USC. They have talent waiting in the wings among the redshirt freshmen and sophomores. FSU added one of the most talented cornerback classes in 2024 with Charles Lester and Cai Bates. Jamari Howard would be listed if he didn't miss so much time with an injury.

Safety

Starters: Shyheim Brown, Devonte Brown

Top Backups: Ashlynd Barker, Conrad Hussey, KJ Kirkland

Shyheim Brown returns as a starter from last season, but FSU has to feel the void left by Akeem Dent. They tried to fast-track Conrad Hussey as a freshman last season with mixed results, but he gained valuable experience. It's one reason they brought in veteran Devonte Brown, who was solid at UCF before going to Miami where the coaching causes players to regress. However, I wouldn't be shocked to see Hussey assume a starting role before the season ended. Ashlynd Barker saw some time as a reserve last year, as did KJ Kirkland before he got hurt.

Special Teams

Kicker: Ryan Fitzgerald

Punter: Alex Mastromanno

Fitzgerald had a nice bounce back year in 2023 and has been solid through spring camp. Mastromanno has been solid since he arrived as a freshman is coming off his best season yet.