The Florida State Seminoles continue to stay in the news even after suffering a brutal loss to end their season in the Orange Bowl. Although many notable starters opted out of the bowl game to remain healthy and prepare for the NFL draft, one notable Seminole waited until after the game to announce his intentions of taking his game to the professional level.
Linebacker Tatum Bethune, a senior who has been a key part of the Florida State defense for the last two years, was sidelined for the final game of the season due to injury. Bethune's noticeable absence not only made an effect on the scoreboard but truly shed light on his impact at FSU.
The day following the game, Bethune took to social media to announce his life-changing decision with a heartfelt message to fans, coaches, and both schools he attended at the college level.
"First and foremost I want to start by thanking God for the opportunity to play collegiate football. Acknowledging that without God, I am nothing, his protection allowed me to excel while blessing me with amazing opportunities and lifelong friendships.
I want to give a special thanks to my coaches, teammates, and fans from UCF and FSU. Your unwavering support and passion has fueled my growth on and off the field. I will be able to relive all those glorious moments for the rest of my life and forever be grateful for my team for joining me in giving everything we had.
Your encouragement has been instrumental in reaching this point, and I carry the spirit of the Nole family and Knight nation with me as I embark on the next chapter of my journey. Thank you for being the heartbeat of my college experience. Your cheers, loyalty, and love will forever hold a special place in my heart. With that being said, I am officially declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft."
During the 2023 season, Bethune recorded 70 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, three pass deflections, and one interception. He was named Third-Team All-ACC at the conclusion of the regular season. His lone interception came in the end zone during the conference championship to prevent a Louisville scoring drive.
Bethune will now be making the leap to the professional level after exhausting his eligibility. He'll be vying to hear his name called in April alongside a plethora of other former Seminoles.
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