FSU transfer linebacker named under the radar breakout star in 2026
· Yahoo Sports
As has been the case for the last few offseasons, the Florida State Seminoles used the transfer portal to significantly bolster their roster. Linebacker was a position they targeted heavily, and Chris Jones out of Southern Miss ended up picking FSU after initially committing to the Ole Miss Rebels.
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The 6-foot-1, 230-pounder brings 22 games of experience, including a monster sophomore campaign in 2025 when he registered a conference-leading 134 tackles; he also racked up 9.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, one interception, and one forced fumble. This led to Jones getting preseason All-ACC honors earlier this week.
Chris Hummer and Matt Zenitz of 247Sports believe Jones will transfer his elite-level play from the Sun Belt Conference to the ACC and have named him as a breakout candidate in 2026.
After leading the Sun Belt with 135 tackles last season at Southern Miss, Florida State added the 6-foot-1, 230-pound Jones to be a plug-and-play starter. Coming out of spring practice, that's the expectation internally among FSU sources, who expect him to be a high-level producer for the Seminoles.
Although he lacks elite top speed, Jones can be a reliable player against the run as well as in coverage, whether it be against running backs or tight ends. His sure tackling could help tremendously with the Seminoles' run defense if their defensive lineman can keep offensive linemen from reaching the second level.
Jones will undoubtedly be a huge factor in what Florida State does at the linebacker spot, which makes his health and performance of the utmost importance for Tony White’s unit. If Jones is performing at a high level, it's most likely due to the parts around him handling their business, and that'll lead to a better FSU defense overall.
It'll be his first season in the garnet and gold, but Jones is already viewed as a key piece to getting the Seminoles back on track.
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This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: FSU transfer linebacker named under the radar breakout star in 2026