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

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ORLANDO, FL – SEPTEMBER 05: Derwin James #3 of the Florida State Seminoles reacts in the first half against the Mississippi Rebels during the Camping World Kickoff at Camping World Stadium on September 5, 2016 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Defensive Back

Starting safeties: Derwin James, Trey Marshall
Backups: Ermon Lane, A.J. Westbrook

The return of Florida State Seminoles safety Derwin James looms. James was off to a fast start in 2016 before a torn meniscus sidelined him for the rest of the season. He enters 2017 healthier than ever and looking to make wreak havoc in the secondary.

Trey Marshall is at the other safety position. Marshall started in 11 games and also is featured in the “Star” role in the nickel formation.

Ermon Lane will serve as one reserve safety. After switching from wide receiver to safety last season, Lane ended up starting five games at safety in 2016. He’ll look to get more reps in this season.

A.J. Westbrook stepped up big last season when James went down with injury last year. He’ll serve as the other backup safety.

Starting cornerbacks: Tarvarus McFadden, Kyle Meyers
Backups: Levonta Taylor, Carlos Becker

At starting cornerback, Tarvarus McFadden returns after snagging eight interceptions a season ago. McFadden led the conference and FBS with his interception total. With James back in the secondary, he’ll certainly be one to watch.

Kyle Meyers, a sophomore, will likely get the starting nod at the other cornerback position. He’ll be in stiff competition with sophomore Levonta Taylor, who we’ll consider the backup for now. Taylor was the top cornerback recruit coming out of high school and was thrown into the fire in his freshman year.

Carlos Becker is likely the other backup cornerback. Becker is an up-and-coming sophomore cornerback who saw action in 10 games last season.

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