The Daily Nole — Aug. 2, 2017: ESPN Ranks James as Nation’s Top Player

Happy hump day, Florida State fans. As your week hits its midway point, keep it here for the latest in FSU athletics. The news and notes section of this post will be updated throughout the day.

Lead Story

First, Sports Illustrated and now ESPN.

The “Worldwide Leader in Sports” has selected Florida State safety Derwin James as the nation’s No. 1 overall player for 2017 despite the redshirt sophomore missing all but two games last season. James did everything for the Seminoles as a freshman in 2015 and was named to six preseason watch lists this offseason.

Also making the list of the nation’s top 50 players for FSU were quarterback Deondre Francois at No. 11, defensive end Josh Sweat at No. 24, cornerback Tarvarus McFadden at No. 25 and defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi at No. 50.

Between the Lines

There were no FSU athletic events scheduled for Tuesday.

On the Agenda

There are no FSU athletic events scheduled for Wednesday.

News and Notes

FSU linebacker Dontavious Jackson has dropped 17 pounds since last season. Tackle Josh Ball is up by 38 pounds.

ESPN’s College Gameday will be in Atlanta for the Sept. 2 contest between Florida State and Alabama.

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Mike Ferguson is the editor of The Daily Nole. Follow Mike on Twitter @MikeWFerguson