Florida State Football Bolsters Secondary with Key Transfer Portal Additions for 2026 Season
The Florida State football team made some key additions to their secondary during the 2026 NCAA Transfer Portal. With the departure of cornerback Shamar Arnoux and safety Earl Little Jr., the Seminoles needed to bolster their defensive backfield. They recently added Nehemiah Chandler and Karson Hobbs to address these gaps and received a commitment from promising safety Ma'Khi Jones, who previously played for Duke. Jones had an impressive freshman season with the Blue Devils, showcasing his skills on the field and contributing to the team's defense. His addition is expected to provide depth and support to the Seminoles' secondary.
Ma'Khi Jones, a three-star recruit from Alpharetta, Georgia, has committed to Florida State after a successful season at Duke. He played in 14 games in 2025, demonstrating his abilities as a safety with 35 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and one sack. Jones also showcased his versatility with a quarterback hurry, a pass breakup, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. His performance earned him a solid overall grade from Pro Football Focus, indicating his potential impact on the Seminoles' defense. With his transfer to Florida State, Jones is expected to contribute as a backup safety and special teams player.
In addition to Ma'Khi Jones, Florida State has welcomed several other transfers to the team, including Nehemiah Chandler and Karson Hobbs. These additions come at a crucial time for the Seminoles as they aim to strengthen their defensive backfield following the departures of key players. The team's recent acquisitions signal their commitment to building a competitive roster for the upcoming season. With the new additions and returning players, Florida State is poised to make a strong impact in the 2026 college football season.