As the sun sets on Florida State's training camp, the Seminoles are gearing up for their season opener against New Mexico State. With just over two weeks until kickoff, the depth chart is still being shaken out, and several position battles are worth monitoring. The following seven battles are particularly intriguing, and could shape the course of the season.
Slot Receiver: Jayvan Boggs vs. Jasen Lopez
In the slot receiver position, Jayvan Boggs and Jasen Lopez are dueling for the starting spot. Boggs, a four-star recruit, was the leading candidate before an injury cost him the end of spring practices and the start of fall camp. Lopez, a four-star recruit and high-level basketball recruit, has stepped up in his absence, showcasing his quick change-of-direction skills and ability to operate in traffic. While Boggs is expected to get the early nod, Lopez has pushed him every step of the way, and could see a relatively even share of snaps this season.
Tight End: Desirrio Riles vs. Landen Thomas
At tight end, Desirrio Riles and Landen Thomas are competing for the starting spot. Both should see plenty of snaps this season, but who plays the first down of Florida State's season is still up for grabs. Riles and Thomas have been discussed as the best blockers in the room, and both have the athleticism to threaten the seams. Who ultimately sees the most snaps this season could come down to the other parts of their games, like run-blocking.
Boundary Safety: CJ Richard Jr. vs. K.J. Kirkland
In the boundary safety position, CJ Richard Jr. and K.J. Kirkland are dueling for the starting spot. Richard was expected to hold this role heading into fall camp, but Kirkland has been highly thought of by his coaches and will be the backup to the rover position. The two could alternate starts at some point this season, and Kirkland's versatility to play across the secondary will be valued.
Cornerback 2: Quindarrius Jones vs. Nehemiah Chandler
At cornerback 2, Quindarrius Jones and Nehemiah Chandler are competing for the starting spot. Jones appears to be the leader, but Chandler, a three-star recruit, has been a name brought up consistently by the coaching staff. The two should see the field plenty opposite Ja'Bril Rawls, and the Seminoles may mix and match the pair to find what plays better with Rawls.
Linebacker 2: Caleb LaVallee vs. Blake Nichelson vs. Omar Graham Jr.
At linebacker 2, Caleb LaVallee, Blake Nichelson, and Omar Graham Jr. are competing for the starting spot. Southern Miss transfer Chris Jones has been a name brought up nearly any time someone from the program has spoken about Florida State's defense this fall. Who Jones' partner is gains importance, and one of the three could separate themselves from the competition across the next few weeks of camp.
Running Back 2: Samuel Singleton Jr. vs. Quintrevion Wisner
At running back 2, Samuel Singleton Jr. and Quintrevion Wisner are competing for the starting spot. Ousmane Kromah appears to have separated himself as the lead back, but Singleton has continued to develop into the complete back that his position coach has said he's looking for. Singleton and Kromah have each received praise for their improved work protecting the quarterback, and Singleton has continued to develop as a pass-catcher.
Cornerback 4: Charles Lester III vs. Ricky Knight III vs. Jamari Howard
At cornerback 4, Charles Lester III, Ricky Knight III, and Jamari Howard are competing for the starting spot. All three were members of Norvell's 2024 recruiting class, and the competition appears to be open behind the first three corners for who will become the fourth in the rotation. Lester and Howard should be an interesting competition to watch, especially early this season against weaker opponents.
