NoleThruandThru: As we approach the 2024 season, I’m quite enthusiastic about the secondary. For both Fentrell Cypress and AZ Thomas, this is a lucrative year. With both players headed to the league after this season, I believe Pat Surtain will assist Thomas in making the next move and Cypress in getting back to his UVA form. Earl Little Jr. is a huge addition because, in my opinion, he is the ideal nickel back for this defense and because Alabama made a strong effort to retain him. I believe Little will lock down the starting nickel spot before the conclusion of the season if it doesn’t happen in the spring. In the 2024 cycle, FSU added three more talented players who will compete for reps. Based on my analysis, I may see 1-4 defensive backs overall transfer following the spring.
on how things shake out with the depth chart and the major influx of incoming talent.
Tim: David said it all, but I’ll still chime in with my two cents. Cypress is the surest piece to start with AZ a close second. Renardo Green will be missed but AZ has a ton of potential and FSU has loaded up on studs with the last few classes. I hope it’s Little in the nickel spot but I could see Greedy Vance making this a competition.
Jordan Silversmith: After sitting down with Fentrell Cypress at the beginning of the off-season, I could feel a different player coming in the 2024 season. He did not have a bad year but felt confident that a second year in the system would create palpable results. The Virginia transfer leads what should be the deepest position group on the defense, if not the entire roster. AZ Thomas should be a great running mate for Cypress, as those both possess the physical qualities to play man coverage. Quindarrius Jones came on strong to end last season and could be the number three corner on the outside. Vance, Little, and Knowles will compete for that nickel spot that Jarrian Jones leaves. Earl Little Jr. will probably start on most days, but his job will be earned. After all that, FSU still has four freshmen waiting in the wings, and a few could play right away. Charles Lester exudes the confidence, physical traits, and hype that come with becoming an early starter. The only question from the young group comes from position versatility. Since KJ Bolden flipped at the last minute, will the staff convert one of these corners to safety? FSU will be able to mix and match based on the matchup. Patrick Surtain should put together one of the best secondaries in the country during his sophomore season.
