Florida State has been missing linebackers who come up in run support effectively over the last couple of years. However, former linebacker Ernie Sims is trying to change the perspective in the room by being elevated to the new position coach this offseason.
We can re-watch the dreaded finale against the arch-rival Florida Gators, where Florida State's defense failed to contain the superstar back Jadan Baugh. This was a concerning trend that the coaching staff knew they needed to address.
The Seminoles went into the transfer portal to grab Southern Miss's Chris Jones and North Carolina's Mikai Gbayor. Then, they also acquired five prospects in the recruiting ranks with four-star Izayia Williams, three-star Noah LaVallee, three-star Daylen Green, three-star Karon Maycock, and JUCO three-star Chris Thomas.
Chris Jones is going to be a problem for opposing teams on the Seminoles' schedule in 2026
Out of the bunch of the five linebackers, Southern Miss linebacker transfer Chris Jones is considered the most productive. Jones had 133 tackles, 3.5 sacks, one interception, and one forced fumble during the 2025 season with the Golden Eagles (according to ESPN Stats and Information).
The Ole Miss Rebels had actually committed and signed Jones during his recruitment process a few weeks prior, but Florida State was able to swoop in and get him to rescind his signed agreement.
This shouldn't be understated, given the importance of the acquisition. Jones spoke to the media on Wednesday afternoon, where he mentioned that he truly loved Florida State. Jones goes on to say that Ole Miss was chosen by him because he envisioned himself in the Patrick Willis role.
While Florida State doesn't have a recent long line of performers at the position. Fans can always point to a player like Telvin Smith, who led the 2013 team to a national championship victory. Smith had 90 total tackles (9.5 for loss), two sacks, and three interceptions during that season (according to sports-reference.com).
I could have easily mentioned former transfer Tatum Bethune, who performed well at Florida State, and rocking out in the NFL, but Smith's energy level was on a whole other level with the Seminoles.