**Breaking News: FSU Linebacker Justin Cryer Discusses Return from Season-Ending Injury and New Scheme**
*March 21, 2025*
Florida State University (FSU) linebacker Justin Cryer is back on the field and ready to make an impact after recovering from a season-ending injury that kept him sidelined for the entirety of last season. The sophomore linebacker, who was one of the top recruits in FSU’s 2023 class, recently sat down for an exclusive interview to discuss his return to the gridiron, the team’s new defensive scheme under head coach Mike Norvell, and his goals for the upcoming season.
### The Road to Recovery
Cryer’s 2024 season was derailed by a serious knee injury that required surgery and extensive rehab. A key player for the Seminoles’ defense in 2023, Cryer had shown great promise during his freshman year. His injury came as a devastating blow to both him and the FSU program, as he was expected to be a cornerstone for the defense.
However, after months of hard work, Cryer is now fully recovered and ready to contribute to the defense once again. The linebacker opened up about his recovery process and the mental challenges he faced while rehabbing.
“It’s been a long journey, but I’m feeling good now,” Cryer said. “The rehab was tough, but I had great support from the medical staff, my teammates, and my family. Mentally, it was a challenge — sitting out and watching the guys play while I was sidelined — but it made me hungry to come back stronger. Now, I’m just ready to get out there and help the team.”
Cryer credited his teammates for keeping his spirits high throughout the recovery process, with many of them offering encouragement and support, especially as the team made their way through a challenging season.
### Transition to the New Defensive Scheme
One of the key storylines heading into the 2025 season is the implementation of a new defensive scheme under FSU’s coaching staff. Coach Mike Norvell, in collaboration with new defensive coordinator, is bringing a fresh approach to FSU’s defense. The scheme focuses on versatility, aggressive pass rushes, and maintaining solid coverage in the secondary, which will require the linebackers to be more dynamic than ever before.
For Cryer, the transition to this new system has been both exciting and challenging. As a linebacker, he will need to adjust to new responsibilities and alignments, but he believes the changes will benefit him and the entire defense in the long run.
“It’s been a bit of an adjustment, but it’s one I’m excited about,” Cryer said. “The new scheme allows us to be more aggressive, and it puts a bigger emphasis on playing fast and flying to the ball. I think it’s going to suit my skillset well. I’m a physical player, and I love making plays all over the field. I think this defense is going to allow us to do that.”
Cryer also mentioned that the communication among the linebackers has been crucial in understanding the new system. With returning veterans like senior linebacker Amari Gainer alongside Cryer, the FSU defense will look to take full advantage of the new strategy.
“Amari has been great in helping me out during this transition,” Cryer said. “We have a great group of linebackers, and we’re all pushing each other to be better every day. We’ve had some great discussions about the new scheme, and I’m confident that we’ll all be on the same page when the season starts.”
Goals for 2025
As he looks ahead to the 2025 season, Cryer has a clear set of goals for both himself and the team. After missing the entire previous season, he’s eager to show his abilities on the field and help lead the Seminoles back into the conversation as one of the top defensive units in the nation.
“My personal goal is to stay healthy, first and foremost,” Cryer explained. “That’s been my biggest focus since I got hurt last year. I want to stay on the field and contribute to the success of this team. And of course, I want to be a leader on this defense, whether it’s through big plays, motivation, or being there for my teammates when they need me.”
On a team level, Cryer stressed the importance of building on the momentum from the previous season, where FSU showed considerable improvement under Coach Norvell, despite facing some tough competition in the ACC. With new additions to the roster and the revamped defense, Cryer is optimistic about what the future holds.
“We’ve got a lot of talent on this team, and we’re really excited about what we can accomplish this year,” he said. “We’re focused on getting better every day, and we’re all bought in to the system. We want to make a run at the ACC championship and, of course, a national title. We’ve got the pieces in place, and it’s all about executing.”
### Leadership and Mentorship
While Cryer’s individual performance will be critical to the defense’s success, he also sees himself as a mentor to the younger players in the linebacker room. Given that he’s entering his sophomore season but has already experienced the highs and lows of college football, Cryer understands the importance of being a positive influence on the next generation of Seminole linebackers.
“We have some really talented young guys, and I’m excited to help them grow,” he said. “I remember how helpful the older guys were to me when I was a freshman, so I want to do the same for these guys. If they need advice on the field or off the field, I’ll always be there for them.”
Cryer’s leadership extends beyond just the linebackers. As one of the core members of the defense, he plays a vital role in fostering a cohesive and motivated unit. His ability to inspire his teammates is crucial, especially in a year where the defense will need to gel quickly in the new scheme.
### Looking Forward to the 2025 Season
As spring practices continue, Cryer’s return to the field will be one of the key storylines for Florida State football in 2025. The Seminoles will face a tough schedule, but with Cryer back in the lineup and the defense poised to improve under the new system, the team is optimistic about making a significant impact in the ACC and on the national stage.
For now, Cryer’s focus remains on continuing to improve, both physically and mentally, as he works to solidify his role as one of the top linebackers in college football.
“I’m just taking it day by day, getting better every practice,” Cryer said. “I’m excited for what this season holds, and I can’t wait to see where this team goes. We’re ready to put in the work and make something special happen.”
### Conclusion
Justin Cryer’s return from injury and the implementation of the new defensive scheme are sure to be game-changers for Florida State football in 2025. With his leadership, determination, and talent, Cryer is poised to have a significant impact on the field and help guide the Seminoles to success. As FSU prepares for the upcoming season, fans can look forward to seeing one of their brightest young stars back in action and ready to take on the challenges ahead.
*Stay tuned for more updates as the Florida State Seminoles prepare for a thrilling 2025 season.*
