Deante McCray Poised to Play Key Role for Florida State in 2025
Defensive end Deante McCray is a name Florida State fans should familiarize themselves with heading into the 2025 season. Following a disastrous 2-10 campaign in 2024, the Seminoles have once again turned to the transfer portal to rebuild their roster. This setback comes after an undefeated regular season and ACC Championship in 2023, making the rapid decline particularly disappointing for head coach Mike Norvell.
To address their struggles, Florida State has brought in over 40 new players along with six new coaching staff members. This marks a significant shift for a program that once prided itself on continuity.
While high-profile transfers like quarterback Thomas Castellanos, wide receivers Duce Robinson and Squirrel White, tight end Randy Pittman Jr., defensive end James Williams, and linebacker Elijah Herring have drawn significant attention, McCray has flown somewhat under the radar.
The former Western Kentucky defensive end started all 14 games for the Hilltoppers last season and brings valuable experience to Tallahassee. The Jacksonville, Florida native tallied 104 total tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery during his collegiate career.
McCray is expected to be a key part of Florida State’s pass-rushing attack, taking on an every-down role. At 283 pounds, he could fill a role similar to former Seminole defensive end Keir Thomas. Under defensive coordinator Tony White, the defensive unit is expected to be aggressive in pressuring opposing quarterbacks.
One of the biggest challenges for McCray will be maintaining consistency. Last season, the Seminoles brought in defensive ends Marvin Jones Jr. from Georgia and Sione Lolohea from Oregon State. However, Lolohea graduated, and Jones Jr. transferred to Oklahoma after just one season.
Florida State is banking on better results this time around, as 2025 will be a crucial year for both the program and Coach Norvell. If McCray can step up, he could be a pivotal piece in the Seminoles’ defensive resurgence.
Leave a Reply