Florida State's defense is heading into a serious transition phase-and the latest departure only underscores how much change is coming to Tallahassee. Starting safety Earl Little Jr. announced Tuesday that he’s declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft, officially bringing his time at FSU to a close after two impactful seasons.
Little made the announcement via Instagram, capping off a 2025 campaign that was easily his most productive since transferring from Alabama. In Tony White’s aggressive 3-3-5 scheme, Little thrived as a playmaker on the back end, racking up 76 total tackles, forcing two fumbles, snagging four interceptions, and breaking up two more passes. He started alongside Ashlynd Barker, forming a safety tandem that gave opposing quarterbacks fits all season long.
But now, with Little heading to the league and Barker, Ja’Bril Rawls, and Edwin Joseph all entering the transfer portal, Florida State’s secondary is in full reset mode. That’s four starters gone-four key pieces of a unit that helped anchor the Seminoles’ defense-and none of them will be back in garnet and gold next fall.
Little’s decision to turn pro is the latest in a growing list of departures from this FSU roster, joining defensive lineman Darrell Jackson and quarterback Tommy Castellanos as early entrants into the draft. For a program that’s been building momentum, these exits mark a pivotal moment.
The Seminoles will need to reload quickly, particularly in the defensive backfield. Tony White’s system relies heavily on versatile, instinctive safeties who can cover ground, tackle in space, and disguise coverages.
Little checked all those boxes. Replacing his production-and his presence-won’t be easy.
But for Little, the next chapter is clear. After a breakout season that showcased his range, physicality, and ball skills, he’s heading to the NFL with momentum and a resume that should turn heads in draft rooms across the league.