Florida State's Depth Takes Another Hit, Defensive Lineman Enters Transfer Portal
Florida State's defensive line depth took another hit during the NCAA's spring transfer portal window. After losing scholarship players such as defensive end Derrick McLendon II, defensive tackle Antavious Woody, defensive end George Wilson, defensive tackle Shambre Jackson, and defensive tackle Jarrett Jackson, another player has decided to take his talents elsewhere.
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On Tuesday, redshirt sophomore defensive tackle Joshua Farmer entered his name into the transfer portal. He appeared in all 13 games last season, recording 15 tackles, six for a loss, and two sacks. During his time in Tallahassee, he recorded a career total of 16 tackles, six for a loss, and two sacks. His best game came against Duquesne in the 2022 season opener with three tackles and he led all ACC freshmen in tackles for loss.
The depth up front on the defense side of the ball is loaded with veterans and seniors who opted to forgo the NFL draft. Defensive tackle Fabien Lovett has a lock on his starting spot, and the 'Noles have added significant players through the portal, like defensive tackle Darrell Jackson and defensive end Gilber Edmond. However, Farmer appeared to be progressing into the two deep after coming off a promising spring camp. He was projected to be heavily utilized in the rotation in 2023.
This comes as a surprise as Farmer also just reunited with one of his close friends, Jackson, who transferred from Miami to Florida State earlier this year. The two played locally at nearby Gadsden County High School. NIL is believed to be a factor in this decision.
The 6-foot-3, 304-pound defensive tackle was ranked as a 3-star prospect coming out of Gadsden High School. He was the 679th overall player in the 2020 class, the 79th defensive lineman, and the 89th prospect in Florida, according to 247Sports.
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