FSU's Secondary Overhaul: A Potential Upgrade in the Making
As we gear up for the 2026 season, Florida State's secondary is undergoing a significant transformation, and there's plenty of buzz around how these changes might elevate the team's defensive prowess. With two starters transferring out to playoff-bound programs, FSU has tapped into the Transfer Portal to bring in three new starters, aiming to solidify their defensive backfield.
Cornerback Battles
**Nehemiah Chandler, RS Soph. **
Chandler, a transfer from South Alabama, is stepping in as a starting cornerback. Standing at 6-1 and weighing 175 pounds, Chandler brings a mix of length and speed, perfect for a Cover 3-heavy scheme.
While he allowed 358 receiving yards last season and had some tackling inconsistencies (10 missed tackles), he improved significantly in the latter part of the season. With 8 pass breakups and 2 interceptions, Chandler has shown his playmaking potential.
However, his performance can be a bit of a rollercoaster, making his development crucial this season.
**Charles Lester, RS Soph. **
Backing up Chandler is Lester, who finds himself at a pivotal point in his career. It's a "now or never" situation for him, while freshman Chuck Kennon lurks as a wildcard with the athleticism to make an immediate impact.
**Ja'Bril Rawls, RS Jr. **
Rawls returns after a promising season cut short by an arm injury. At 6-1 and 185 pounds, he brought unexpected physicality and solid coverage skills, tallying 40 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and an interception.
With more on-ball production needed, Rawls is poised to step up if tested more frequently.
**Quindarrius Jones, Sr. **
Jones, standing at 6-2 and 192 pounds, is coming off a season-ending injury. Before that, he faced challenges adapting to a new zone scheme but showed signs of settling in.
A reliable tackler, Jones should provide solid backup to Rawls.
Safety and Nickel Positions
Field Safety/Nickel: Jones
Jones made waves late in his freshman year at Duke, excelling in a larger role.
Despite his 5-11, 190-pound frame, he delivered multiple QB pressures and allowed just two catches for negative yardage in his final three games. Expected to set the tone in the secondary, Jones is primarily learning the nickel/field safety role.
Hobbs
Hobbs, at 6-1 and 195 pounds, might also see time at nickel, though he’s likely more of a depth piece after his stint at Notre Dame.
**Boundary Safety: CJ Richard Jr., RS Soph. **
Richard, a standout transfer, brings a strong resume from the FCS level, with 60 tackles and 3 interceptions in 17 games. While a transition period is anticipated, Richard has the potential for an NFL future.
**K.J. Kirkland, RS Jr.
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Kirkland, despite his size and range, struggled last season with a high completion rate allowed.
His performance will need to improve for him to be a reliable option.
Rover Safety
**Ashlynd Barker, RS Sr. **
Barker, at 6-3 and 216 pounds, is a versatile option for the Rover position. His size makes him an ideal fit as a pseudo linebacker, and while he was serviceable last season, his efficiency dipped due to a shoulder injury.
Barker's adaptability could be a significant asset in this role.
Tre Bell III, Fr.
Bell, a freshman, brings football instincts and effort that could make him a valuable contributor, especially inside the tackle box against the run.
As FSU's secondary gears up for the upcoming season, the blend of new talent and returning players sets the stage for a potentially upgraded defensive unit. With strategic positioning and development, this overhauled group could provide the backbone for FSU's defensive success.