Defensive ends: Five things to know about FSU's pass-rushers in 2016
Editor's Note: With preseason practice just weeks away, Warchant is previewing the upcoming Florida State football season by looking at each position group on offense, defense and special teams. The sixth installment in our preview series is on the defensive ends.
Earlier Previews: Running back | Quarterback | Wide Receiver | Offensive Line | Linebackers
The Big Picture
Florida State proved it could get to the quarterback with success in 2015, and such a trend is expected to continue in 2016.
The Seminoles entered last season with questions regarding their pass rush after recording just 17 sacks in 2014. But that number mushroomed to 32 one year later.
Then-junior defensive end DeMarcus Walker was one major reason for the change. Walker, who had one sack in 14 games during his sophomore year, exploded for 10.5 in 13 games the following season.
Walker aside, the Seminoles also welcomed contributions from former five-star prospect Josh Sweat. After suffering a terrible knee injury as a high school senior, the athletic Sweat factored into 13 games and recorded 41 tackles, two sacks and an interception.
Although Sweat and Walker are proven, the same cannot be said for others at the defensive end position. Heading into the 2016 season, several factors have led FSU to adjust its roster to create depth when it needs to rest Sweat and Walker.
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