Former FSU Defensive End Commits to Colorado After Leaving Program In March

After starting 12 games for the 'Noles last season, the redshirt sophomore has found a new home.

Florida State's Derrick McLendon II announced his intentions to transfer earlier this spring after amassing a career-high 37 tackles, five tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks while starting 12 games in 2022.

His 37 tackles were more than the previous four years combined. Totaling 61 tackles, seven sacks, a forced fumble, and 12.5 tackles for loss during his time in Tallahassee, he seemed to be turning into a solid rotational piece on what is projected to be a top-tier defensive front in the country this fall.

READ MORE: Florida State Loses Veteran Defensive End to NCAA Transfer Portal

On Wednesday, McLendon committed to the Colorado Buffaloes via his Instagram. Colorado has been in the spotlight this past week after a massive exodus of players hit the transfer portal under first-year head coach Deion Sanders, a former Seminole himself. Overall, 45 players have left the program since Deion took over, with more soon to come as the transfer portal window narrows down and will close on April 30.

Sanders has been busy in the transfer portal bringing in names from major programs like Alabama transfer LB Demouy Kennedy, CB Travis Hunter and QB Shedeur Sanders. Sanders was also able to sign five-star cornerback Cormani McClain in February.

READ MORE: Deion Sanders at Forefront of Massive Player Exodus at Colorado

McClendon is one of many FSU players to enter the portal in the spring window joining former teammates defensive tackle Joshua Farmer, defensive tackle Antavious Woody, offensive lineman Zane Herring, linebacker Brendan Gant, and linebacker Stephen Dix.

READ MORE: Florida State's Depth Takes Another Hit, Defensive Lineman Enters Transfer Portal

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