FSU’s starting safety has declared for the 2024 NFL Draft and has opted out of the Orange Bowl.
When Florida State finishes its season in the Orange Bowl next weekend, it will be without a slew of starters on both sides of the ball. This figure could climb in the days coming up to the game, based on NFL departures and transfers.
Redshirt senior Akeem Dent announced on social media on Sunday evening that he was declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft and opting out of the game versus the Georgia Bulldogs. After five seasons in Tallahassee, he’ll concentrate on getting ready for the next level.
Despite being hampered early in the season by a lower-body ailment, Dent appeared in ten games with eight starts, amassing 44 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 0.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one pass deflection. He tied his season high with seven total tackles in Florida State’s regular-season finale win over Florida and ACC Championship triumph over Louisville.
Dent has 187 tackles, five tackles for loss, one sack, two forced fumbles, 16 pass deflections, and an interception in his career with the Seminoles. He joined the program as a five-star recruit under former head coach Willie Taggart and stayed when Mike Norvell came in Tallahassee.
“First and foremost, I want to thank God for constantly keeping me motivated and for the numerous benefits I’ve received. Thank you to my coaches and staff for shaping the person I’ve become on and off the field. Thank you for the vital lessons learnt during this program’s duration, and thank you for making this team seem like a family.”
“This journey was full of accomplishments for my teammates that no one can take away from us.” We will be remembered for the energy and commitment we brought to the stadium. Most importantly, our accomplishments as a team will live on in Florida State Football history.”
“Thank you so much, Florida State!” Now is the time for the next phase in my life, so I’m formally declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft.”
Dent joins running back Trey Benson, tight end Jaheim Bell, wide receiver Keon Coleman, wide receiver Johnny Wilson, defensive end Javier Verse, and defensive tackle Fabien Lovett as the latest starters to withdraw from the game.
QB AJ Duffy (San Diego State), running back Rodney Hill (FAMU), running back CJ Campbell (FAU), tight end Markeston Douglas (Arizona State), offensive lineman Bless Harris (TCU), offensive lineman Daughtry Richardson (FAU), and offensive lineman Qae’Shon Sapp (FAMU) are among the transfers on the roster.
On Saturday, December 30, Florida State and Georgia will square off. The game will begin at 4:00 p.m. and will be broadcast on ESPN.
