FSU Newcomers who boost their stock after 1st week of spring ball
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Florida State wrapped up its opening week of spring football with several newcomers making early impressions before the team breaks until next Monday.
While much of the attention has centered on Auburn transfer quarterback Ashton Daniels — the early favorite to win the starting job — other transfers and early enrollees have also begun trending in their first week of spring ball.
Here are several players who boosted their stock during the first week of camp:
Devin Carter, WR
True freshman wide receiver Devin Carter was among the first-years who stood out. With Duce Robinson, Micahi Danzy and Jayvan Boggs projected as the top three in the rotation, Carter has positioned himself as a contender for the fourth spot.
“He showed that he belongs, and there’s still a lot of work and things he has to do,” coach Mike Norvell said. “Just the consistency of it, but it hasn’t seemed too big for him.”
Carter — the son of former FSU star Dexter Carter — was a four-star prospect out of Atlanta.
Chris Jones, LB
Southern Miss transfer Chris Jones has quickly validated the high expectations surrounding him.
The 6-foot-1, 232‑pound junior has flashed sideline‑to‑sideline playmaking ability and is expected to be a major piece in a linebacking corps that includes Omar Graham Jr., Blake Nichelson and North Carolina transfer Mikai Gbayor.
Jones is coming off a breakout season at Southern Miss, where he recorded 133 tackles — seventh-most in the nation.
Rylan Kennedy, Edge
Texas A&M transfer Rylan Kennedy brings raw athleticism and versatility to a defense searching for a reliable pass-rush presence. Kennedy has shown early explosiveness off the edge and the potential to move around the formation.
“I think he’s a guy who is going to have an impact for us,” Norvell said. “His confidence is riding high … and now he’s getting a shot to showcase all of his skills.”
Kennedy played three seasons with the Aggies, totaling 3.5 sacks.
Noah LaValle, LB
Freshman linebacker Noah LaValle has emerged early with several splash plays, including a forced fumble in the first three practices.
A three-star signee from Marietta, Georgia, he joins his brother, Caleb, who transferred from UNC last year but missed the season due to injury.
Frank Whitley, DL
With defensive line depth still unsettled, freshman Frank Whitley has offered promising early signs through his natural power and size.
The 6-foot-6, 276‑pound South Carolina native has stood out for his strength and ability to disengage blockers.
“He’s still very new to the game, but you saw natural strength,” Norvell said.
Earnest Rankins, DL
Freshman defensive lineman Earnest Rankins also turned heads, especially once the pads came on. The 6-foot-4, 266‑pound East Atlanta product has earned praise for his physicality and quick improvement.
“I saw Earnest Rankins really flash a few times,” Norvell said. “We’ve got big expectations for him.”
Peter Holland Jr. covers Florida State athletics for the Tallahassee Democrat. Contact him via email at PHolland@Gannett.com or on X @_Da_pistol.
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: FSU football’s newcomers stand out in 1st week of spring practice
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