Photo courtesy of Florida State athletics
After a quiet 2020, Florida State linebacker DJ Lundy made his presence felt during the 2021 season.
As a redshirt freshman, Lundy recorded 69 total tackles — tied for third on the team — five tackles for loss and one sack. However, the unknown when it came to his skillset was his coverage ability. On the eve of fall camp, Florida State head coach Mike Norvell alluded to Lundy’s transformation.
“Just wait until you see him tomorrow,” Norvell said. “His body build, the conditioning level, things that we challenged him to take ownership in… He did that. I really like the positive strides that we have seen from him.”
Lundy put in the necessary work this offseason to become a successful collegiate linebacker. Once listed at 255 pounds, some viewed him as a “non-traditional” linebacker in today’s college football landscape. The Ocilla (Ga.) native is now down to 232 pounds and seems much comfortable coming down in run support while also covering in space.
“I thought DJ Lundy had a really good scrimmage,” Norvell said following Monday’s scrimmage. “You could see a different player than what was here last year. He’s trimmed some body weight. He flew around and I really liked what I saw.”
For much of the offseason, the conversation at the linebacker position has revolved around UCF transfer Tatum Bethune and potential second-year starter Kalen DeLoach. But after putting the work in to remain a contributor for the second year in a row, Lundy should not be forgotten.
