FSU's 2026 Projected Depth Chart: Defense
Florida State football begins its 2026 preseason camp on Wednesday, marking a critical point for the program as it looks to bounce back from two consecutive losing seasons. The focus for head coach Mike Norvell is the defensive unit, where a revamped depth chart aims to stabilize the team's performance.
Projecting the defensive front reveals a tactical split. The coaching staff is balancing a 3-man front with a more versatile 4-man configuration, prioritizing speed and the effectiveness of players like Rylan Kennedy. Up front, Kevin Wynn and Daniel Lyons carry significant expectations, with the program relying on their development to anchor the line against stiff competition.
Linebacker play remains a primary area of concern. The roster features a rotation of Chris Jones, Omar Graham, Blake Nichelson, and Mikai Gbayor. With internal competition high, the coaches want one of these players to separate himself and claim a definitive lead in snap counts. The performance of these homegrown talents will determine if the defensive corps can move past previous inconsistencies.
Secondary alignment shows significant change. Ja'Bril Rawls serves as the clear leader at cornerback, though his durability is a major factor for success. The safety positions have seen a total transformation with new arrivals like Ma'Khi Jones and C.J. Richard Jr. integrated alongside returning players like Ashlynd Barker. The success of this rebuilt defensive backfield is essential for the team's ambitions this fall.