James Williams, Stefon Thompsom, Deamonte Diggs, and Elijah Herring met with the media for the first time

The first batch of Florida State’s defensive transfers held newcomer interviews on Thursday morning. They discussed their relationships with the staff, the new football-only facility, and their journeys to Tallahassee. Stefon Thompson and James Williams, who came to Florida State from Nebraska, expanded on their connections with the defensive coaches. At the same time, Deamonte Diggs and Elijah Herring talked about how instrumental they were in getting them to Tallahassee.

Thompson led off, talking about defensive coordinator Tony White and his pitch to players.

“The message he is trying to get across is just do it at 100%. Do it fast, physical, and violent. If you are able to do that, you’ll be able to make an impact on the game.”

The former Syracuse and Nebraska LB played under White for multiple seasons and feels, “I can play everything. It just depends on the situation and the team we’re playing.”

Fellow linebacker Elijah Herring followed, discussing how playing with two former teammates made his trip to Tallahassee straightforward.

“We’ve been together almost every day since we got here. We talk about our dreams and what we want to do at Florida State. It made the transition a lot easier, for sure.”

Defensive lineman James Williams took the stand next and dove into what new FSU defensive line coach Terrance Knighton has meant to him.

“The relationship with Coach Knighton and me is well documented at this point. He is a father figure to me…I have a really great relationship with Coach White as well. When I met him, he really believed in me.”

Williams also mentioned that he must acclimate to the summer heat in the south after living in the mid-west to prepare for Alabama in late August.

Deamonte Diggs rounded out the day, and the former Youngstown State and Coastal Carolina player opened up about what it means to put on the garnet and gold.

“Growing up, this is a dream school for a lot of people. This is the Alabama for a lot of people where I’m from. This is a surreal moment…But it’s pushing me harder to reach my goals.”

The full media availability of the student-athletes can be found below. Newcomer interviews resume next Tuesday.