Joshua Farmer Florida State DT Emerges as Defensive Anchor for 2025 Season

Joshua Farmer has emerged as a force on Florida State’s defensive line, showcasing his skills as a disruptive interior defender. The 6’3″, 318-pound defensive tackle has made significant strides since joining the Seminoles.

He earned All-ACC honorable mention recognition and the prestigious Bobby Bowden Leadership Award. His combination of size, strength, and technical ability makes him one of the more intriguing defensive tackle prospects to watch as NFL scouts begin evaluating talent for upcoming draft classes.

The Gadsden County High School product has developed into a cornerstone of the Florida State Seminoles defensive front. Wearing number 5, Farmer has steadily improved his production and technique, becoming increasingly difficult for ACC offensive linemen to handle. His ability to both occupy blockers and penetrate the backfield has been crucial to Florida State’s defensive scheme.

Looking at Farmer’s trajectory, his growth from a three-year high school starter who tallied 84 tackles to a respected ACC defensive lineman demonstrates his developmental ceiling. While not yet mentioned among the elite defensive tackle prospects nationally, his continued progression suggests he could climb draft boards with another strong season of disrupting opposing offenses.

Early Life and High School Career

Joshua Farmer’s journey to Florida State football began in his small Florida hometown before he developed into a promising defensive line prospect during his high school years.

Hometown and Background

Farmer hails from Port St. Joe, FL, a small coastal community in Florida’s panhandle. This Gulf Coast town helped shape Farmer’s character before he eventually attended Gadsden County High School in nearby Havana, Florida.

His path to college football wasn’t without challenges. Farmer faced significant hardships and personal tragedy during his formative years, obstacles that tested his resilience long before he would put on a Florida State uniform.

These difficult experiences shaped his mental toughness and determination, qualities that would serve him well as he developed into a college prospect.

High School Football Achievements

At Gadsden County High School, Farmer emerged as a talented defensive lineman. Recruiting services consistently rated him as a three-star recruit, highlighting his potential despite not receiving the highest recruiting rankings.

His performance on the field caught the attention of several college programs, but Florida State ultimately secured his commitment. Farmer’s high school career demonstrated his raw physical tools and potential for development.

Farmer’s High School Profile:

Category	Rating/Information
Recruiting Ranking	Three-star prospect
Position	Defensive Line
High School	Gadsden County (Havana, FL)
Height/Weight (HS)	6’3″

His high school tape showed a player with natural strength and quickness. Coaches noted his ability to disrupt plays in the backfield, though he was still developing technically as a defensive lineman.

Collegiate Career with Florida State Seminoles

Joshua Farmer developed into one of Florida State’s most impactful defensive linemen during his four-year career. His progression from a promising recruit to an All-ACC performer showcased his dedication to improving his technique and understanding of the game.

Freshman Year

Farmer arrived at Florida State as a three-year starter from Gadsden County High School, where he had earned first-team All-Big Bend recognition. His transition to college football began quietly, as he worked to adapt to the increased speed and complexity of the ACC.

The young defensive tackle spent most of his freshman campaign learning behind veterans on the depth chart. His limited playing time allowed him to develop physically while absorbing the nuances of Florida State’s defensive scheme.

Farmer recorded modest statistics in his first season, primarily appearing in situational packages. His raw talent was evident, though, as he flashed the quickness and strength that would later become hallmarks of his game.

The coaching staff praised his work ethic during practice sessions, noting his eagerness to improve. This dedication would pay dividends as his role expanded in subsequent seasons.

Sophomore Year

Farmer’s sophomore campaign marked his emergence as a contributor along the defensive front. With increased playing time came improved production, as he began to apply the lessons learned during his freshman season.

The defensive tackle showed notable improvement in his leverage and hand technique. These refinements allowed him to shed blocks more effectively and disrupt opposing offenses.

His statistical output reflected this development, with increased tackles and his first career sacks. Farmer displayed a particular knack for creating pressure up the middle, collapsing pockets and forcing quarterbacks into hurried decisions.

Against conference opponents, Farmer began establishing himself as a player to watch. ACC offensive coordinators took notice of #99’s disruptive presence in the interior of Florida State’s defensive line.

The coaching staff rewarded his improvement with a larger role in the rotation, setting the stage for his breakout junior season.

Junior Year

Farmer’s junior year represented his true breakout at Florida State. Now firmly entrenched as a starter, he emerged as one of the team’s defensive leaders both on and off the field.

His production spiked significantly, particularly in the backfield where he consistently created havoc. Farmer’s combination of quickness off the snap and improved hand technique made him especially effective as a pass rusher.

Statistic	Junior Year
Tackles	28
TFL	8.5
Sacks	4.5
FF	1

“He’s developed into one of the more disruptive interior defenders in the ACC,” noted one opposing coach. “His first step is elite for a player his size.”

Farmer earned honorable mention All-ACC recognition for his standout play. His performance against rival Miami, where he recorded 1.5 sacks and forced a crucial fumble, highlighted his ability to deliver in big moments.

Senior Year

Farmer’s senior campaign cemented his legacy as one of Florida State’s most reliable defensive linemen. Building on his junior success, he earned All-ACC honorable mention recognition and the Bobby Bowden Leadership Award.

His statistical production remained strong as he finished his career with impressive totals. Over four seasons, Farmer accumulated 80 tackles, 21 for loss, and 11 sacks – numbers that caught the attention of NFL scouts.

At the 2025 NFL Combine, Farmer showcased the athleticism that made him so effective in college. His testing numbers aligned with scouts’ mid-round projections, with most analysts viewing him as a potential 3rd-4th round selection.

“What stands out about Farmer is his consistency and motor,” noted one NFC scout. “He might not have the ceiling of some other prospects, but his floor is high. He’s ready to contribute in a rotation immediately.”

Farmer’s leadership qualities further enhanced his draft profile. Teammates consistently praised his work ethic and mentorship of younger players, qualities that resonated with NFL decision-makers seeking high-character additions to their locker rooms.

Statistical Overview

Joshua Farmer’s defensive numbers tell a compelling story of his development at Florida State. His production in key metrics shows why NFL scouts have him on their radar for the 2025 Draft.

Career Stats Summary

Farmer has established himself as a disruptive force on the Seminoles’ defensive line. Through his career at Florida State, he has accumulated impressive tackle numbers, particularly in his most recent campaigns.

His solo tackle production has shown marked improvement, with 12 solo tackles in the current 2024 season. This upward trajectory demonstrates his increasing ability to shed blocks and make plays without assistance.

Farmer’s size (6’3″, 314 pounds) combined with his production has him projected as a mid-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, with teams valuing his ability to penetrate and disrupt opposing offenses.

Season	Solo Tackles	Total Tackles	Sacks	FF	FR
2024	12	28*	4	0	1
2023	10	22	3	1	0
2022	8	16	2	0	0

*Stats through current date (April 2025)

Key Performance Metrics

Farmer’s 4 sacks in 2024 showcase his ability to pressure quarterbacks. His pass rush skills have improved each season, with QB hurries becoming a consistent part of his impact.

What jumps out when watching Farmer is his explosiveness off the line. His impressive measurables, including 35¼” arms and an 83⅜” wingspan, give him natural advantages in trench battles.

The former four-star recruit, once ranked as the No. 43 defensive end prospect coming out of high school, has fulfilled that potential during his time in Tallahassee. His versatility is notable, as he’s been deployed at multiple positions across the defensive front.

NFL scouts particularly appreciate his consistent improvement trajectory across multiple statistical categories, suggesting he hasn’t yet reached his ceiling as a player.

Positional Analysis

Joshua Farmer has developed into one of Florida State’s most disruptive defensive linemen. His physical tools and technical skills make him a legitimate NFL prospect with potential to impact games at the next level.

Strengths and Skills

Farmer’s most impressive attribute is his exceptional wingspan. At the NFL Combine, he showcased elite arm length of 35 inches, the best among all defensive tackles in his class. This length allows him to engage offensive linemen while maintaining separation.

At 6’3″ and 318 pounds, Farmer possesses an ideal frame for the position. His combination of size and explosiveness enables him to be a force against both the run and pass.

The Florida State product displays impressive initial burst off the snap. He can shoot gaps with surprising quickness for a man his size.

Farmer’s hand usage continues to improve, allowing him to disengage from blockers more efficiently. He’s particularly effective using a bull rush to collapse the pocket from the interior.

Areas for Improvement

While Farmer has shown consistent growth throughout his college career, he still has areas to refine as he transitions to the NFL. His pass-rush moves, for example, could use more variety to keep blockers guessing.

Improving his pad level will also be important at the next level. Farmer occasionally gets too high in his stance, allowing blockers to get underneath him and control the line of scrimmage.

These are relatively minor concerns, though, and Farmer’s work ethic suggests he’ll continue to develop as a pro.

Gameplay Strategy

Farmer primarily excels as a disruptive force in the trenches. He plays like a “bull in an antique shop”, using his size to create havoc.

His strategy involves quick penetration to disrupt running lanes. Once he identifies run plays, Farmer fires off the ball and works to maintain gap integrity.

Against the pass, he’s developed multiple approaches. His primary move remains a powerful bull rush, but he’s added counter moves to his arsenal when offensive linemen overcommit.

Farmer shows good discipline in maintaining rush lanes, rarely giving mobile quarterbacks easy escape routes. His awareness of screen plays has noticeably improved throughout his college career.

Positional Role

Farmer has transitioned fully to interior defensive line after playing defensive end earlier in his career. This developmental path has helped him understand multiple positions along the defensive front.

At Florida State, he’s been deployed primarily as a three-technique defensive tackle, lining up on the outside shoulder of guards. This positioning maximizes his quickness advantage against interior linemen.

NFL scouts view Farmer as a potential three-down player at the next level. His ability to affect both the run and pass makes him valuable in an era where defensive tackles rarely leave the field.

Most draft analysts project Farmer as a mid-round selection with upside. His combination of physical tools and developing technique gives him significant room for growth under professional coaching.

Impact on the Florida State Team

Joshua Farmer’s presence on Florida State’s defensive line transformed both the team’s on-field performance and their locker room culture. His development into a standout defensive tackle coincided with critical improvements in the Seminoles’ defensive metrics.

Leadership and Team Dynamics

Farmer emerged as a quiet but effective leader for Florida State, particularly during the 2023 season when the Seminoles needed stability on defense. Players regularly mentioned his work ethic in practice sessions, setting a tone that elevated the entire defensive unit’s intensity.

Despite not being the most vocal player, Farmer’s consistent performance earned him respect in the locker room. His dedication to film study became legendary among teammates, with defensive coordinator Adam Fuller noting that Farmer often spent an extra 2-3 hours reviewing game footage.

When injuries hit the defensive line in mid-season, Farmer stepped up his leadership role. He organized additional player-led practices that coaches credited with maintaining the defense’s cohesion during a critical stretch against ACC opponents.

His removal from the FSU roster and appearance in the transfer portal marks a significant leadership void the Seminoles will need to address.

Defensive Line Contribution

Farmer’s on-field impact can’t be overstated. His breakthrough 2023 season saw him start all 13 games while recording impressive numbers across multiple categories:

Statistic	2023 Season
Tackles	32
Tackles for Loss	7
Sacks	5
QB Pressures	14
Games Started	13

What made Farmer particularly valuable was his versatility. His impressive length and quickness allowed defensive coordinators to utilize him in both three and four-man fronts.

Florida State’s run defense improved dramatically with Farmer anchoring the middle. The team allowed 0.8 fewer yards per carry when he was on the field, according to team analytics.

His power and athleticism disrupted opposing offensive lines, creating opportunities for linebackers to make plays. FSU’s defense recorded 12 more tackles for loss in 2023 compared to the previous season, with Farmer’s presence being a key factor.

Notable Game Performances

Joshua Farmer showed his disruptive power and athleticism in several standout games for Florida State. His combination of strength at the point of attack and surprising quickness made him a difference-maker in key moments for the Seminoles.

Record-Breaking Games

Against Clemson in 2023, Farmer put his name on the map with a dominant performance that showcased his NFL potential. Despite Florida State’s 29-13 loss, he consistently collapsed the pocket and recorded 1.5 sacks along with 6 tackles.

The 6’3″, 305-pound defensive tackle showed surprising mobility in FSU’s matchup with North Carolina, logging 7 tackles and a fumble recovery. NFL scouts took notice of his lateral quickness for a man his size.

In the 2023 season opener against LSU, Farmer registered 2 tackles for loss and consistently demanded double teams, freeing up teammates to make plays. His bull rush technique proved nearly unstoppable against single blocking.

Farmer’s athletic ability was on full display at the NFL Combine where his screaming 40-yard dash attempt went viral, showing both his competitive fire and surprising speed for a 305-pound interior lineman.

Clutch Plays

Farmer’s game-saving forced fumble against Miami in the fourth quarter preserved a narrow victory for the Seminoles. His ability to maintain energy late in games separates him from other defensive tackle prospects in the 2025 draft class.

In a critical third-down stop against Duke, Farmer showcased his disruptive abilities by splitting a double team and collapsing the pocket, forcing an errant throw that was intercepted. These momentum-shifting plays have elevated his draft stock.

Key Game Statistics:

Opponent	Tackles	TFLs	Sacks	Forced Fumbles
Clemson	6	2	1.5	0
UNC	7	1	0	1
Duke	5	2	1	0
Miami	4	1	0	1

Projected as a potential day two selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, scouts love Farmer’s combination of power and surprising athleticism. His steady improvement year-over-year has been particularly appealing to teams looking for a developmental interior defensive lineman with a high ceiling.

Recognition and Awards

Joshua Farmer has established himself as one of Florida State’s defensive standouts, earning significant recognition both within the team and across the Atlantic Coast Conference. His combination of power, technique, and leadership has been rewarded with multiple honors that reflect his impact on the Seminoles’ defense.

College Football Honors

Farmer’s breakthrough 2023 season put him firmly on the national radar, where he earned second-team All-ACC recognition after recording 32 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks. His consistent disruption of opposing offenses didn’t go unnoticed by conference voters.

For the 2024 season, Farmer received All-ACC honorable mention, continuing to build his reputation as a formidable defensive presence in one of college football’s premier conferences.

Most recently, Farmer was named to the prestigious Bednarik Award Watch List alongside teammate Patrick Payton. This recognition places him among the nation’s elite defensive players being considered for one of college football’s most coveted individual honors.

Team Awards

Within the Florida State program, Farmer has been consistently recognized for his contributions beyond the stat sheet. Early in his career, he was named the team’s Defensive Freshman of the Year after recording 15 tackles in his initial campaign.

Perhaps most telling of his character and leadership qualities, Farmer was honored with the Bobby Bowden Leadership Award in 2024. This prestigious team honor, named after the legendary Seminoles coach, recognizes players who demonstrate exceptional leadership both on and off the field.

His development at Florida State shows a clear upward trajectory:

Season	Games Started	Tackles	TFL	Sacks	Honors
Freshman	Limited	15	N/A	N/A	Defensive Freshman of the Year
2023	13	32	7	5	Second-team All-ACC
2024	Ongoing	N/A	N/A	N/A	Bednarik Watch List, Bowden Leadership Award

Prospect Analysis and Draft Projection

Joshua Farmer has established himself as an intriguing defensive line prospect from Florida State who brings a combination of length, power, and versatility to the table. His development throughout his collegiate career has caught the attention of NFL scouts who see potential for him to contribute at the next level.

NFL Draft Potential

Farmer is trending as a potential day-two selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. His ability to fit in multiple defensive schemes makes him valuable, as he can play in either a three or four-man front. At Florida State, he developed from a three-star recruit into a disruptive force on the defensive line.

What stands out most is Farmer’s combination of physical traits and technical skills. His length allows him to engage offensive linemen effectively, while his power enables him to hold his ground against the run. NFL teams are particularly drawn to his versatility.

Farmer’s draft stock is bolstered by these key metrics:

Attribute	Rating	Note
Pass Rush	76%	Above average
Run Defense	63%	Developing area
Tackling	70%	Solid fundamental technique
Overall Offense Rating	81%	Strong overall prospect

Scouting Reports

Multiple scouting reports highlight Farmer’s upside as an NFL prospect. His player profile on NFL.com tracks his combine performance and draft analysis, giving teams comprehensive data to evaluate his potential.

Analysts note several strengths in his game:

• Powerful anchor at the point of attack
• Good length to keep blockers off his frame
• Developing pass-rush arsenal with room to grow

Areas for improvement include consistency in run defense, where he’s rated at 63%. One scout comparison likens him to Larry Ogunjobi, suggesting a similar developmental trajectory and playing style.

NFL teams view Farmer as a prospect who could develop into a starting nose tackle with the right coaching and system fit. His performance at Florida State demonstrated growth each season, indicating he hasn’t yet reached his ceiling as a player.

Media Coverage and Publicity

Joshua Farmer has garnered significant attention from sports media during his time at Florida State and throughout his NFL Draft preparation process. His combine performance and potential as a defensive tackle have made him a notable figure in football press coverage.

Press Features

Farmer’s journey to the NFL has been well-documented across major sports publications. His performance at the 2025 NFL Combine received substantial coverage, with Sports Illustrated highlighting his “solid showing” at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

The defensive tackle also made appearances on NFL Network programming, where he discussed his draft process on “The Insiders.” These media opportunities have helped raise his profile among NFL scouts and general managers.

247Sports covered Farmer’s pre-combine press conference, where he spoke with media before participating in the physical testing. The coverage emphasized his preparation and mindset heading into this crucial evaluation period.

Several draft analysts have projected Farmer as a mid-round selection, with his draft stock trending upward following combine testing. The 33rd Team’s scouting report labels him as a “potential three-down threat at the NFL level.”

Social Media Presence

Farmer maintains an active social media profile. Here, he shares training videos, Florida State content, and personal milestones. His accounts saw significant engagement spikes during the combine. Fans and media shared clips of his drills and measurables.

Florida State’s official athletics accounts regularly feature Farmer. They highlight his All-ACC honorable mention recognition and Bobby Bowden Leadership Award. These institutional promotions have helped build his brand throughout his college career.

NFL Draft-focused accounts have increasingly mentioned Farmer in their prospect breakdowns. They note his versatility and potential fit with various defensive schemes. Yahoo Sports included him in their “risers” list following the combine. They cited his athleticism at his size as a particularly appealing trait for NFL talent evaluators.

Personal Life and Interests

Joshua Farmer grew up in Havana, Florida. He attended Gadsden County High School. His roots in small-town Florida shaped his work ethic and approach to football.

Off the field, Farmer has earned recognition for his leadership qualities. He was honored with the Bobby Bowden Leadership Award during his time at Florida State. This award highlights his character beyond athletic performance.

Teammates often mention Farmer’s dedication to community service in Tallahassee. He regularly participates in youth football camps and visits local schools to speak about the importance of education.

Farmer’s academic pursuits focus on sports management, with a minor in business. He maintains a solid GPA while balancing the demands of being a starting defensive lineman in a major college program.

Year	Awards & Recognition
2023	FSU Most Improved Defensive Player
2024	All-ACC Honorable Mention
2024	Bobby Bowden Leadership Award

Farmer is an avid fisherman during the offseason. He often heads to nearby lakes with teammates. This hobby provides him with relaxation away from the intensity of football.

NFL scouts have noted Farmer’s maturity and leadership abilities as positive traits that complement his physical attributes. His 6-foot-3, 314-pound frame combined with his good initial quickness and agility make him an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft.

In his spare time, Farmer enjoys video games. He has become known as one of the top Madden players on the team. He often organizes tournaments in the dorms.

Community Involvement and Initiatives

Joshua Farmer’s impact extends well beyond the football field. The Florida State defensive tackle has established himself as a community leader through his dedication to charitable causes and youth development programs in his hometown and college community.

Charitable Work

Farmer has been notably active in Port St. Joe, FL. Here, he regularly participates in food drives during holiday seasons. Last Thanksgiving, he organized an event that provided meals to over 200 families in need.

His “Tackle Hunger” initiative, launched in 2023, has become a staple in the community. Farmer personally delivers food packages to elderly residents unable to leave their homes.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Farmer demonstrated exceptional leadership. He coordinated mask distribution efforts for vulnerable populations in the Tallahassee area.

“The community gave so much to me growing up. Now it’s my turn to give back,” Farmer explained during a recent FSU community service awards ceremony. He received recognition for logging over 150 volunteer hours in 2024.

His work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Big Bend has been particularly impactful. Here, he mentors at-risk youth and serves as a positive role model.

Youth Football Programs

Farmer has created significant momentum with his annual youth football camp in Port St. Joe. The free one-day camp serves over 100 children ages 8-14. It teaches not just football skills, but also emphasizes education and character development.

The camp features several notable aspects:

• Skills training from FSU coaching staff and former players
• Academic workshops focusing on STEM education
• Character development sessions emphasizing discipline and teamwork

In partnership with the Florida State athletic department, Farmer has helped establish a mentorship program. This program connects FSU football players with middle school students in underserved communities.

“Joshua doesn’t just teach football techniques—he shows these kids what real commitment looks like,” notes Port St. Joe High School coach Tanner Jones. “He’s building the next generation of leaders.”

Farmer’s dedication to youth development has earned him a spot on the 2025 Wuerffel Trophy watch list. This honors college football players who excel in community service.