Florida State Signs Karson Hobbs to Help Depleted Secondary

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Florida State has signed former Notre Dame cornerback Karson Hobbs from the transfer portal. Hobbs has two years of eligibility. 

In two seasons at Notre Dame Hobbs has played in 16 games while starting one game. In his career, he has seven tackles, one interception, and one pass breakup. 247 ranked Hobbs as the No. 240 prospect in the portal, and the No. 17 cornerback.

The 6-foot-1, 189-pound Hobbs is one of 24 players brought in from the portal by head coach Mike Norvell, and one of four defensive backs. The other defensive backs are: Ma’khi Jones S/Duke, CJ Richard Jr S/Illinois St, Nehemiah Chandler CB/South Alabama.

Norvell’s defense finished No. 43 in total defense last season. It doesn't help that 35 players hit the portal, including their top two safeties, and top cover corner. Hobbs is coming into a situation where he will have a chance to compete for a starting spot, or at least get in the rotation. 

Last season Hobbs totaled five tackles and an interception over seven games with Notre Dame. He made his first career start against Texas A&M making four tackles, and had his lone interception of the season against NC State.

Hobbs was able to get significant reps at nickel for Notre Dame when the starter went down with injury. In two games against Texas A&M and Miami Hobbs gave up nine receptions on 17 targets for 157 yards and a score. His playing time was reduced greatly after those lackluster performances.

As a true freshman in 2024, Hobbs had two tackles on the season (both tackles were against Virginia) and had a pass breakup against Miami of Ohio.

Hobbs is a native of Cincinnati OH where he played high school ball at Archbishop Moeller. On3 rated him as the No. 592 player in the country, while most publications had him listed as the No. 55 corner in the country.

Hobbs is considered an athletic defensive back and while he’s projected to be a rover/safety, he’ll have a chance to show his versatility when Florida State goes to camp on July 30.

With 17 losses over the last two seasons, Norvell and 2nd year defensive coordinator Tony White will try to do everything possible to see where Hobbs can fit in and contribute, immediately.

Florida State opens the season on August 29 at home against New Mexico St, a change of pace from last season's opening opponent, Alabama.

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