FSU also landed a linebacker in Southern Miss transfer Chris Jones, who announced the decision in a post on his Instagram.

Jones had an impressive 135 tackles in 2025. He led the Sun Belt with 84 solo tackles and also had 9.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks and one interception.

After entering the transfer portal, Jones reportedly signed with Ole Miss. It's not clear how Jones and his representatives have resolved that agreement.

Jones graded well as a run defender (77.4) by Pro Football Focus in 2025 but not as well in coverage (46.8).

The 6-foot, 230-pound Jones would have added value as a rising junior in 2026 who could play two college seasons at FSU.

Jones and UNC transfer Mikai Gbayor strengthen an FSU linebacker group that will also include Blake Nichelson and Omar Graham Jr. Caleb LaVallee, who missed all of 2025 due to injury following his transfer from North Carolina, also returns.

The Seminoles also added Izayia Williams, Karon Maycock, Daylen Green and Noah LaVallee as signees in December.

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