Arnoux eyes starting CB role at FSU

Coaches see maturity and on-field impact as Arnoux challenges veterans for the top cornerback job.

Freshman Shamar Arnoux Emerges as Contender for Florida State Starting Cornerback

Florida State is evaluating its starting cornerback position opposite Jeremiah Wilson. Ja'Bril Rawls and Quindarrius Jones are in the mix, but freshman Shamar Arnoux has risen as a surprising contender during the second act of preseason camp. Staff members say his size, length and versatility fit Tony White's zone-based defense and could allow him to contribute as a rookie.

Arnoux has faced early challenges off the field, including minor legal issues and off-field decisions. Coaches say he has grown since then, arriving at the facility early and becoming more vocal in the group. Surtain notes that he is now a different player from the spring and that his upward trajectory could earn him meaningful reps by August.

Arnoux’s ascent reflects a broader shift in college football, where teams prize players who combine physical tools with reliable preparation and accountability. If he sustains this growth, he could push the veteran group and reshape Florida State’s early-season rotation. Yet the path from promising practice rep to reliable game action remains uncertain, especially for a freshman who has already faced discipline questions.

The staff’s emphasis on maturity signals a longer-term view for the program, not just a single season. If Arnoux continues to improve, he could become a blueprint for integrating high-end freshmen into key roles without compromising team chemistry. The challenge will be managing expectations fueled by early praise while protecting him from overexposure and inevitable mistakes in big moments.

Highlights

The coming weeks will reveal how quickly trust translates into on-field impact.