Florida State University (FSU) is gearing up for the 2024 football season and the Seminoles are confident in their defensive capabilities despite losing several key starters from the previous year. With a noticeable drop in star power, FSU believes that this year's defense will make up for it with speed and depth.

One player expected to step up is Aaron Hester, a redshirt sophomore who has shown promise as a pass rusher with 12.0 sacks over the last two seasons. Hester's offseason progress has earned him a potential spot in the rotation and his situational pass-rushing skills could prove valuable to the team.

Another standout is Marvin Jones Jr., a junior and former five-star recruit from the University of Georgia. Jones Jr. had a slow start during spring but has impressed with his burst and athleticism, making him a strong pass rusher along with Sione Lolohea, a senior known for his run-stopping abilities.

Moving on to the interior defensive line, Joshua Farmer, a redshirt junior, has shed some weight and gained speed, making him a potential starter alongside Daniel Lyons, a redshirt sophomore. Tomiwa Durojaiye, also a redshirt sophomore, is expected to focus on perfecting one position and could see extra playing time on passing downs.

In the linebacker position, Darrell Jackson, a redshirt junior, is ready to capitalize on lost time after sitting out a year. Standing at 6-6 and weighing 330 pounds, Jackson's size and agility are a threat to opposing offensive lines. Grady Kelly, a junior transfer from Colorado State, brings strength and thoughtful pass rushing skills, while freshman KJ Sampson is turning heads with his work ethic and increasing strength.

In the secondary, Shawn Murphy, a redshirt sophomore transfer from Alabama, adds an element of unpredictability with his up and down performance during spring. Lundy is expected to be the primary starter, known for his run defending skills, while Cryer follows as an understudy for the instinctive inside linebacker position. Omar Graham, another redshirt sophomore, aims to showcase his abilities as he recovers from injury.

At cornerback, Quindarrius Jones is expected to be the backup to starter Thomas, with Edwin Joseph and Ja'Bril Rawls also vying for positions. Fentrell Cypress, a transfer from UVA, looks to improve in FSU's man-based coverage scheme.

Finally, at safety, Omarion Cooper and Kevin Knowles II, both seniors, are projected to fill important roles. Little Jr., an Alabama transfer, is anticipated to replace Jarrian Jones and contribute with his athleticism. Ashlynd Barker, a redshirt sophomore, will play a significant role alongside leader and starter Brown.

FSU's defensive depth chart for the 2024 season showcases a mix of experienced players, transfers, and promising young talent. While lacking the previous season's star power, the Seminoles are looking forward to a faster and deeper defense that will pose challenges to their opponents.