March 11, 2013

Brandon Mellor Seminoles.com Managing Editor

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Freddie Stevenson was one of five linebacker signees in the 2013 class but is the only one of the handful of new 'Noles at that position that will benefit from a head start.

A January early enrollee at Florida State, Stevenson just capped off his first set of Fourth Quarter Drills last week and will begin his first spring practice as a collegiate player when the Seminoles return to action March 20. 

[Video: Stevenson's official highlight reel]

Stevenson's early addition to FSU's linebacker corps was critical. Without Nick Moody and Vince Williams, the Seminoles enter spring practices with just seven linebackers on scholarship (including Stevenson), so the Bartow, Fla. will be asked to contribute immediately.

Stevenson will get the chance to compete for playing time when spring practice starts March 20.

With Christian Jones and Telvin Smith likely to hold on to starting jobs, there is a wide open starting gig at Moody's old spot that Stevenson has the talent to push for that job.

At 6-foot-1 and 230 pounds, Stevenson also has the size to step up and build off his reputation as a strong run-stopper in high school.

“We watched him in drills the other day and boy, he’s going to be a good player," Fisher said in February.

Stevenson gave a verbal pledge to FSU on July 4, 2012 and stayed steadfast in the decision. He'll wear No. 4 for the Seminoles.

His primary recruiter for the 'Noles was defensive tackles coach Odell Haggins, who also attended Bartow High School.

Previous Signee Breakdowns:

Feb. 7 - Jeremy Kerr

Feb. 8 - Tyrell Lyons

Feb. 11 - Levonte whitfield

Feb. 12 - Marquez White

Feb. 13 - Ryan Hoefeld 

Feb. 14 - Nate Andrews 

Feb. 15 - Wilson Bell 

Feb. 18 - Davarez Bryant 

Feb. 21 - Ira Denson 

Feb. 26 - Isaiah Jones 

Feb. 27 - Ro'Derrick Hoskins 

Feb. 28 - Ryan Green

March 1 - John Franklin III 

March 4 - Desmond Hollin 

March 5 - DeMarcus Walker 

March 6 - Jesus Wilson 

March 7 - Keith Bryant

March 8 - E.J. Levenberry 

March 9 - Matthew Thomas

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