Florida State’s defensive coaching staff for the 2026 season is coming into greater focus.
John Papuchis, who has been the Seminoles’ linebackers coach and special teams coordinator, is leaving to take a position at Missouri, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel.
Papuchis previously coached defensive ends at Florida State and has been on the staff since Mike Norvell came to Tallahassee in 2020.
With Papuchis leaving, Florida State could elevate former Seminole star Ernie Sims to linebackers coach — he served as assistant linebackers coach this past season and as a defensive analyst before that. Defensive coordinator Tony White, who played linebacker in college and has coached the position, could also take over that spot.
There was an indication Papuchis could be leaving when Florida State hired Nick Williams as Edges coach and pass-rush coordinator earlier this month.
White’s defensive coaching staff now features Terrance Knighton as defensive line coach, Williams handling the Edges, Blue Adams coaching the cornerbacks and Evan Cooper handling the safeties. White did not have responsibility for a specific position last season.
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