Mike Norvell identifies the players that are ready to step up on Florida State's defense

Mike Norvell has turned the page from last season and is ready to compete in 2024. Florida State is going to look a little bit different, losing a lot of talent across the roster. A lot of defensive players who contributed are no longer with the program and a few guys will need to step up early in the season.

Some of those names were discussed by Norvell, two of which were in attendance with him at ACC Media Days in Charlotte. One is a linebacker stepping into a bigger role after impressing as a youngster while the other has been worthy of high praise in the past for the Seminoles.

“Pat Payton, who has been an all-conference performer, former Rookie of the Year in the ACC,” Norvell said Monday. “All-conference performer this past season. Really expecting him to take another step in his game.

“Josh Farmer an all-ACC player on the defensive front. You look at all three phases of our defense. A guy like D.J. Lundy who played so many snaps throughout the last four years of his time at Florida State. How he emerges as a leader within the course of this defense.”

In the back end of the defense, Norvell is quite confident in the secondary Florida State has assembled. He believes all-ACC recognition might not be enough in December, thinking national attention could be heading their way.

“The guys in the secondary,” Norvell said. “I think we got two of the best corners in the ACC, guys that are All-American-type capabilities in Fentrell Cypress and Azareye’h Thomas. Experienced backfield with length, size, ability.”

The way Norvell sees it, the Florida State defense is a nice mixture of homegrown talent while also adding via the NCAA transfer portal. Norvell has not been afraid to go out and get talented players, being a big reason why the Seminoles have had great teams the last couple of years. Doing the same in 2024 is seemingly a part of the plan.

“I think our defense is as deep as it’s ever been,” Norvell said. “Been able to have some guys that have grown throughout their time here. But also coupling that with some newcomers that have come in, whether Marvin Jones Jr., Sione (Lolohea), Cam Riley that’s joined in. You know, Earl Little, different guys that have been able to come in and complement the guys around that you’re really fired up about what that group can be.”