Florida State’s defense just got a major boost heading into 2026.
Cornerback Ja’Bril Rawls, who had previously been expected to enter the transfer portal alongside nearly 30 other Seminoles, has reversed course. Instead, the redshirt sophomore - and arguably FSU’s top defensive back - will return to Tallahassee for another season. The announcement came on New Year’s Eve, and it’s no small development for a program navigating a wave of roster turnover.
Rawls, a 6-foot-1, 185-pound DB, was widely regarded as one of the top defensive backs in the portal. He drew serious interest from programs across the country, and for good reason.
Despite battling injuries in 2025, Rawls still managed to suit up for seven games and made his presence felt every time he hit the field. He totaled 40 tackles, including two for loss, picked off a pass, recovered a fumble, and broke up two others.
Notably, he was the only Seminole defender last season to post multiple games with 10 or more tackles - a rare feat for a cornerback and a testament to both his physicality and instincts.
When healthy, Rawls is a difference-maker. He plays with a chip on his shoulder, and it shows in the way he attacks the ball, whether it's in the air or on the ground.
He's not just a cover guy - he's a willing tackler who doesn’t shy away from contact. That kind of versatility is gold in today’s game, especially in a conference as competitive as the ACC.
What makes this return even more meaningful is the context around it. FSU’s defensive back room has been in flux, especially after coaching changes that left some players reportedly frustrated.
Many believed Rawls was on his way out, possibly in search of a bigger payday or a different opportunity. And truthfully, no one would’ve blamed him - he’s earned that kind of attention.
But instead, he chose to come back to the program that believed in him first.
This is the kind of loyalty - and mindset - that Florida State needs as it looks to re-establish itself among college football’s elite. Rawls wasn’t a five-star phenom out of high school.
He earned his way onto the roster by showing up, competing, and proving he belonged. That same work ethic has carried him into the conversation as one of the best corners in the ACC, and now, he’s returning to build on that legacy.
For FSU, this isn’t just about retaining a talented player - it’s about keeping a tone-setter in the locker room. Rawls is the type of guy who leads by example, and his decision to stay could have a ripple effect on others in the program. In a time when the transfer portal has become a revolving door, Rawls’ return is a reminder that there’s still value in continuity, in loyalty, and in finishing what you started.
With Rawls back in the fold, Florida State’s secondary has a proven playmaker to anchor the unit. And if he can stay healthy in 2026, don’t be surprised if Rawls plays his way into serious NFL Draft conversations.
The tools are there. The mindset is there.
And now, so is the opportunity - right where it all began.