FSU football pass-rusher departs program after disappointing lone season

Florida State's last two transfer portal classes have not lived up to expectations. That's been a big reason the Seminoles are 7-17 since the beginning of the 2024 campaign.

The coaching staff had high hopes for the 23 incoming transfers last year. Truly, roughly seven of those players could be considered successes for Florida State this fall, and four of those were offensive linemen.

Following a disappointing season, one veteran defender who transferred into Tallahassee is on the way out the door.

Florida State DE James Williams Departing After One Season With Program

On Friday evening, redshirt junior defensive end James Williams announced his decision to transfer after one season at Florida State. Williams was supposed to be one of the Seminoles' top transfers, considering his experience playing for defensive coordinator Tony White and defensive line coach Terrance Knighton.

That never transpired as he wasn't able to make the pass-rushing impact that he did at Nebraska. Williams had aspirations to become an every-down defender, but was a net negative against the run and failed to capitalize on passing downs.

In 11 appearances and six starts, Williams totaled 19 tackles, three tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. He was credited with 23 quarterback pressures but also missed 28.6% of his tackling attempts, per PFF.

Williams had outstanding pressure numbers at Nebraska in 2024, recording 14 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks. He was never able to find the same success at Florida State.

Knighton and Williams have a close relationship. Knighton recruited him to Nebraska out of JUCO and that bond was a big reason they stuck together with the Seminoles. It'll be interesting to see what path Williams takes.

The 6-foot-6, 259-pound defensive end is expected to have at least one season of eligibility remaining, maybe more due to previous JUCO rulings.