Who will lead the Seminoles in major statistical categories for the 2024 season?

SACKS

Florida State redshirt junior defensive end Jared Verse decided to enter the 2024 NFL Draft. The former Albany transfer had a phenomenal two-year career with the Seminoles where he had 88 total tackles and 18 sacks.

The Seminoles have made a name for themselves when it comes to acquiring transfer portal talent with the defensive end position. Fans saw the benefits of adding players such as Jared Verse, Jermaine Johnson II, and Keir Thomas.

Florida State even had success this offseason where they got the signings of Georgia's Marvin Jones Jr., Oregon State's Sione Lolohea, and West Virginia's Tomiwa Durojaiye. Disclaimer, I believe that all of them will do well in 2024.

While I like the potential of all three pass rushers within this defensive scheme, I believe that this is the year that redshirt junior Patrick Payton emerged to be the alpha dog in the defense. I am not suggesting that the Miami native has not done enough as a capable starter because Payton has accumulated 74 total tackles and 12 sacks over the past two seasons.

With all of the talk of the transfer portal prospects taking command of the projected statistical leaders, I believe that it is time for a home-grown defensive end to step up in Tallahassee.

Pick: Patrick Payton