FSU safety CJ Richard ranks among top returning ACC safeties

Florida State safety CJ Richard has been recognized by Pro Football Focus as one of the top-graded returning safeties in the ACC. Richard, a transfer from Illinois State, recorded 36 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and two interceptions last season, earning Freshman All-American honors. His grade of 79.1 makes him the sixth-highest graded safety in the conference. As FSU adopts a 3-3-5 defensive scheme, Richard is expected to play a key role in providing defensive support alongside teammates K.J. Kirkland, Ma'khi Jones, and Ashlynd Barker. The Seminoles look to improve their defense significantly this season with key personnel changes amid an active transfer period.

• 8:15 PMYahoo Sports — FSU defender named one the top graded returning safeties in the ACC