Florida State Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2017

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MIAMI GARDENS, FL – DECEMBER 30: Nyqwan Murray #80 of the Florida State Seminoles scores a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the Michigan Wolverines during the Capitol One Orange Bowl at Sun Life Stadium on December 30, 2016 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Chris Trotman/Getty Images) /

Linebacker

Starting outside backers: Jacob Pugh (SAM), Matthew Thomas (Will)
Backups: Joshua Brown, Emmett Rice/Adonis Thomas

Jacob Pugh and Matthew Thomas are two linebackers emerging as players to watch on the Florida State Seminoles’ defense. Thomas led the team in tackles last season (77 total) while Pugh is ready to show what he can do entering his senior season. Pugh took home spring MVP honors over Derwin James and Tarvarus McFadden at this past spring game.

Thomas and Pugh have a chance to be a huge strength for the Seminoles linebacking corps this season. Thomas is on both the Bednarik Award and Butkus Award watch lists.

Joshua Brown, Emmett Rice and Adonis Thomas are all sophomores looking to push for playing time at the linebacker position as well. Thomas is the most intriguing prospect as he’s a formerly a member of the Alabama Crimson Tide. Rice was a standout special teams player a season ago.

Starting Mike linebacker: Ro’Derrick Hoskins
Backup: Dontavious Jackson

Ro’Derrick Hoskins is the third senior linebacker to round out this year’s linebacking group for Florida State. Hoskins started every game last season at the Mike linebacker position. His 53 total tackles ranked fourth on the team.

Hoskins backup, Dontavious Jackson, came up big when given the opportuntiy last season. Jackson had 20 tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss and 0.5 sacks in eight appearances in 2016. His reserve role could take on a bigger meaning in 2017.

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