As the Florida State Seminoles prepare to reload for another run at ACC dominance and national relevance in 2025, one of the most intriguing and competitive position battles brewing this offseason is at defensive end. With star power exiting and new blood entering the fold, FSU fans and coaches alike are asking the million-dollar question: Who will emerge as the next fearsome pass rusher for the Noles?
A Legacy of Dominance on the Edge
Florida State has a proud tradition of elite edge rushers—from Peter Boulware and Andre Wadsworth, to more recent names like Brian Burns and Jermaine Johnson II. The bar is high in Tallahassee, and 2025 will demand a new generation of playmakers to step up and continue the legacy.
The Current Landscape: What We Know
The 2024 season saw some solid contributions from veterans and flashes of brilliance from younger players. But with key departures to the NFL Draft, including All-ACC standout Jared Verse, there’s now a gaping hole in the Seminoles’ pass-rushing unit.
Several names are already turning heads in offseason workouts and spring practices:
- Byron Turner Jr. – A redshirt junior who has steadily developed and added muscle, Turner looks poised for a breakout year. His explosiveness off the line and improving hand technique make him a top contender to start.
- Lamont Green Jr. – A local legacy with sky-high upside. Green showed flashes last season as a true freshman and brings both speed and football IQ to the edge.
- JUCO transfer Jalen McCloud – The wildcard. Coming off a dominant season at the JUCO level, McCloud has raw power and a relentless motor. If he adapts quickly to Power Five speed, he could be a game-changer.
- Freshman Phenom Elijah “Edge” Thompson – The crown jewel of FSU’s 2025 recruiting class, Thompson was a Top 100 recruit who earned his nickname for good reason. Early reports suggest he’s already impressing in summer workouts with his frame, burst, and attitude.
What’s at Stake?
This isn’t just about filling gaps—it’s about redefining the tone of the defense. FSU’s defensive scheme thrives on edge pressure, forcing quarterbacks into hurried decisions and giving the secondary more opportunities to create turnovers.
If the defensive end unit struggles, the Seminoles could be left vulnerable, especially against high-tempo offenses like Miami, Clemson, and Florida. On the flip side, if even two of these players make a leap, FSU’s defense could be among the most disruptive in the ACC.
Potential Rotational Strategy
Defensive coordinator Adam Fuller has hinted at a deeper rotation in 2025 to keep legs fresh and pressure constant. Expect FSU to:
- Rotate 4-5 DEs regularly, especially in early downs.
- Use situational packages, such as speed rushers on third and long.
- Mix in defensive tackles on the edge in heavy sets for run-stopping.
This approach could not only maximize talent across the board but also create matchup nightmares for opposing offensive lines.
Final Thoughts: The Battle is On
As we inch closer to fall camp, the defensive end rotation remains one of the most exciting position battles to watch in Tallahassee. The Seminoles are not short on talent—what remains to be seen is who rises from the pack to become the next feared name off the edge.
FSU fans, get ready—because when the dust settles, a new leader will emerge to carry the torch, terrorize quarterbacks, and anchor the defense. Keep your eyes on the edge—it’s about to get explosive.
