FSU football: Top 15 most important defensive players for 2024 season

No. 8 Shyheim Brown-DB

The biggest trash talker in the secondary is Shyheim Brown. He's also the most experienced safety in Adam Fuller's defense and an All-ACC caliber player. Brown's presence helps the young guys in the room like Hussey, who FSU will depend on to play meaningful snaps this season. Brown's also seen major increases in production in each subsequent season he's been at FSU.

He had 50+ tackles last year. We've seen a safety lead an Adam Fuller defense in tackles before, and Brown could be that guy if the linebackers take a step back this season. There is a ton of young talent, but no proven depth behind Brown unless Devontae Brown slides over in the event Shyheim isn't available, which makes his position even more important.