This is the seventh in a series of articles counting down the most important players for Florida State in 2012. There are 51days until FSU football, and that's how many are left on the list. That means no off days. Oh, and these are not in any specific order.

Everett Dawkins | 6'2, 301 | RS Senior | Defensive Tackle

Background

A four-star prospect, he earned All-State honors at defensive end for South Carolina powerhouse Byrnes High School...his team capped a 15-0 senior season with a state championship...played in Max Emfinger's All-American Bowl Classic in Jackson, Miss., where he recorded five sacks and double-digit tackles....also played in the 71st annual Shrine Bowl game...had 115 tackles from his defensive end position as a senior, including 14 sacks and five fumble recoveries...Byrnes teammate Justin Bright joins him on the FSU roster....received 10 scholarship offers and selected FSU over South Carolina, Illinois, Michigian State, Tennessee and Virginia Tech...born June 13, 1990. -- Seminoles.com

Career Summary To Date

I consider Dawkins FSU's top defensive lineman, at any position, and it really is not all that close. Considering that every time he lines up there is at least one future top three rounds NFL pick lining up beside him, this is no small statement. As a primary true defensive tackle, he has no problem taking on double team blocks and routinely wins one on one match-ups inside. Even at around 300 pounds, Everett has terrific acceleration and body control making him perhaps the Noles most versatile down lineman. He lined up at each DL position in 2011 and could probably start at most ACC schools at all four spots (no, not at the same time).

As a sophomore, in 2010, Dawkins demonstrated flashes of dominance as a full time starter. The experience he gained in 2010 helped him develop a terrific understanding of the position. In 2011 he led all interior lineman in playing time, logging over 400 meaningful game time snaps (56% of the team total), and routinely diagnosed plays properly. Sound fundamentals and assignment oriented play were key to FSU's excellent line play last year and Dawkins led the way. When healthy, he is disruptive and can take over the game. The biggest question this year is how far the senior's NFL stock will rise. -- FSU Spring Defensive Line Preview

2012

Dawkins is perhaps Florida State's most underrated player. He's a senior leader, well respected by teammates, but still one of the guys who jokes around and has a good time. It's important to have the guy who has a good time, but also sets the example when it is time to go to work. Dawkins has played more games in his career than any Florida State defender.

Dawkins greatest asset is his consistency. He doesn't often jump out of his gap, which prevents big plays. Physically, he doesn't stand out compared to the other defensive linemen, but he is exactly the type of player FSU will miss in 2013 after he is gone. Oh, and he is now on the Outland Trophy watch list, given annually to the top interior lineman in the country.

Despite a likely 10-12-man rotation, another 400+ snaps in meaningful time should be expected from the senior. He remains a crucial piece on what might be the best defense in the country.