Which current Seminole defensive end will replicate the likes of Jared Verse?

Florida State's defensive unit had a remarkable 2023 campaign where it accomplished an undefeated regular season and a conference championship. With a high level of success, there is always a risk associated with players on the roster getting drafted.

Florida State did have its fair share of draft picks where it saw ten of them selected (and had more undrafted free agents). That is a message that you can send to the college football world when it comes to helping out on the recruiting trail.

As we all know, ultra-talented defensive end Jared Verse was selected 19th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams. The former Albany transfer decided to return for another year in Tallahassee last offseason in hopes of bringing the Seminoles a national championship.

That defensive line with Verse creating havoc for opposing offenses was difficult for the opposing fan bases to look at. He continued to dominate during his time with Florida State in the 2023 season where he accumulated nine sacks.

ESPN's David Hale discussed on ESPN's article "The replacements: Who will fill the shoes of those picked in the first round of the NFL draft" that three contributors could the answer at the defensive end spot for the Seminoles now that Verse is gone.

He mentions defensive ends Patrick Payton, Marvin Jones Jr., and Sione Lolohea.

Let's start with Payton. The former four-star prospect has been progressing every season since he has been a Seminole. The Miami (FL) native recorded eye-opening double-digit pass breakups from a season ago. The defensive end then bulked up his frame and is now 254 pounds. It is easy to project Payton as the next in line.

Jones Jr. was acquired this offseason via the transfer portal from the Georgia Bulldogs. While he did not have much production during his time with the Bulldogs, fans are expecting a ton with him given that his father (Marvin Jones Sr.) was a former linebacker at Florida State. The former American Heritage standout will be looking to create his own Seminole legacy.

Lastly, Lolohea was mentioned. This is a transfer prospect that seems to have been forgotten. Marvin Jones Jr. seems to be the one who was taking the glory with the fanbase to the tie to the program. However, the former Oregon State transfer has been flashing his skill set during this spring and looks to be a huge part in the Seminoles' plans for 2024.

One piece that I don't get talked about enough is redshirt junior defensive end Byron Turner Jr. While he was a reserve last season, I believe that he can take another step in his development under defensive end coach John Papuchis. Turner Jr. is a viable option and could even have a breakout campaign if things go his way.

If you want to view the full ESPN article, click here.