FIU’s downhill, playmaking linebacker with record-setting disruption
In the 2023 season, Donovan Manuel was FIU’s tone-setter at linebacker, finishing with 121 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, and a program-record five forced fumbles while ranking among the FBS leaders in tackles and takeaway production.[9][11][12] His calling cards are violent run fits, relentless motor, and real field-general value—coaches praised how he communicates checks and keeps the defense aligned pre-snap, which is the kind of glue-player trait that doesn’t always show up in a box score.[2] If you want an instinctive, high-impact middle linebacker who can hunt the ball and change possessions, he’s a strong fit.
