Florida State’s defense will be without one of its most productive playmakers next season, as redshirt junior defensive back Earl Little Jr. has officially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Little made the announcement on Tuesday, capping off a two-year stint in Tallahassee that saw him evolve from a reserve contributor into a cornerstone of the Seminoles’ secondary. In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, he thanked coaches, teammates, university staff, and his family, while reflecting on his journey through college football and his decision to forego his senior year.
After transferring from Alabama, Little found his stride in 2025, starting 11 of 12 games and leading Florida State in tackles (76), interceptions (4), and forced fumbles (2). He also added two tackles for loss and a pair of pass breakups.
His four interceptions were not only the most by a Seminole since 2021, but also ranked fourth in the ACC and 16th nationally during the regular season. He became the first FSU player since 2016 to record interceptions in three straight games - a stretch that showcased both his instincts and his ability to make game-changing plays.
What made Little’s 2025 campaign stand out even more was his versatility and consistency. He was one of just two players in the ACC to log at least 75 tackles and four interceptions during the regular season - rare company for a defensive back. Whether he was flying downhill in run support or dropping back into coverage, Little showed the kind of all-around skill set that NFL scouts covet.
His breakout game came early in the season when Florida State faced Alabama - his former team. In a full-circle moment, Little posted a team-high nine tackles and notched a tackle for loss, setting the tone for what would be a standout season.
He followed that up with a 48-yard interception return against East Texas A&M, and later turned in a career-high 13 tackles against Virginia. That performance, paired with Ja’Bril Rawls’ 11 tackles, marked the first time since 2022 that two Seminoles posted double-digit tackles in the same game.
Little continued to stack strong outings throughout the season: seven tackles against Miami, five tackles and a pick versus Pitt, another interception and a tackle for loss against Stanford, and a 35-yard interception return with a forced fumble in a dominant effort against Wake Forest. Week in and week out, he was a steadying force in the Seminoles’ secondary and a key reason for the defense’s success.
His 2024 season, while quieter statistically, laid the groundwork for his breakout. Playing in a reserve role, Little appeared in all 12 games and recorded 15 tackles, one sack, and a tackle for loss.
He also earned recognition as FSU’s Special Teams Newcomer of the Year. That season saw him transition from nickel to safety - a move that ultimately unlocked more of his potential in 2025.
Before his time in Tallahassee, Little spent two seasons at Alabama, where he appeared in 11 games and recorded two tackles. His college career began with promise but was slowed by injury early on. He returned to action during his redshirt freshman year, contributing on special teams and defense for a Crimson Tide squad that won the SEC title.
Coming out of high school, Little was one of the most highly rated defensive backs in the country. A consensus four-star prospect from American Heritage in Florida, he was ranked among the top 10 cornerbacks nationally and top 10 overall players in the state by multiple recruiting services. His high school résumé included 106 tackles, six interceptions, and a state championship - all while playing under the spotlight that comes with being the son of former NFL defensive back Earl Little Sr.
Now, he’s set to take the next step in his football journey.
Little’s decision to declare for the draft is the latest chapter in what’s been a busy offseason for Florida State, with roster changes already underway as the program prepares for 2026. But for Little, the focus is now on the future - and with a season like the one he just put together, he’s positioned himself as one of the more intriguing defensive back prospects in this upcoming NFL Draft class.