Florida State linebacker Tatum Bethune is returning to school for the 2023 season.

FSU’s starting middle linebacker announced that news on Thursday afternoon.

Here’s that announcement:

That’s huge news for Florida State as Bethune has been a fixture in the middle of its defense this season. He’s set to be one of the leaders on the Seminoles’ defense again in 2023.

He finished second on the team with 76 total tackles. He also compiled 8.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks. This was Bethune’s first season at Florida State after he arrived via the transfer portal from UCF last season.

Florida State is expected to lose a couple key players from its defense in Jared Verse and Jammie Robinson. However, the Noles are also bringing back key players like quarterback Jordan Travis and now Bethune. Other players are expected to make their NFL Draft decisions in the coming weeks.

FSU will face Oklahoma in the Cheez-It Bowl later this month.