With the transfer portal now closed, Clemson’s roster is nearly set for the 2025 season, barring any spring surprises or early NFL departures. Here’s a sneak peek at who could be leading the charge for the Tigers across the field:
Quarterback: Cade Klubnik Klubnik had a standout 2024 season, amassing 3,639 yards, 36 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. As he enters his third year, the sky’s the limit for the talented QB. Could he top 4,000 yards or even push for 40 touchdowns? With his frame growing to 6-foot-2, 210 pounds and another offseason to develop, don’t be surprised if he exceeds expectations—and he’ll have a prime opportunity to fuel Heisman talk early, facing LSU.
Running Back: Gideon Davidson After Clemson relied heavily on Phil Mafah this season, the baton could be passed to Davidson, a four-star recruit with an impressive high school resume. The 6-foot, 195-pound powerhouse from Virginia racked up 7,500+ rushing yards and 120+ touchdowns. With a solid mix of talented backs, including David Eziomume and the recovering Jay Haynes, Davidson could make an immediate impact.
Wide Receiver: Antonio Williams, Bryant Wesco Jr., T.J. Moore A trio of explosive receivers, just a year older, ready to terrorize secondaries. Wesco averaged 17.3 yards per catch, Moore made major strides during his freshman year, and Williams is primed for a breakout season. With depth added by Cole Turner, Tyler Brown, and 6-5 transfer Tristan Smith, Clemson’s receiving corps is a force to be reckoned with.
Tight End: Olsen Patt-Henry Patt-Henry, who developed as a blocker in 2024, now faces a big test as a primary pass-catching threat with Jake Briningstool gone. Redshirt freshman Christian Bentancur, a multi-sport athlete, will also compete for snaps and could be a surprise star.
Offensive Line: Tristan Leigh, Collin Sadler, Ryan Linthicum, Walker Parks, Blake Miller If Blake Miller returns, Clemson retains a solid and experienced offensive line. The Tigers’ line will feature seven years of combined starting experience at tackle, with Sadler, Sewell, and Thurmon ready to battle for guard positions. If Miller heads to the pros, freshman Brayden Jacobs will compete for the open tackle spot.
Defensive Line: T.J. Parker, Peter Woods, Stephiylan Green, Will Heldt A loaded defensive line that boasts serious talent, including Parker’s 19.5 tackles for loss and 11 sacks. Woods proved disruptive as a freshman, and Green, despite a quieter finish to 2024, will look to take the next step. Heldt could be a key factor, and if some of the younger players step up, this line will be formidable.
Linebackers: Wade Woodaz, Sammy Brown The dynamic duo of Woodaz and Brown will anchor the linebacker corps. Woodaz led the team in tackles in 2024, while Brown flashed serious potential as a freshman, posting 11.5 tackles for loss. This pair should continue to shine, with additional depth from McCloud, Anderson, and others.
Secondary: CB Avieon Terrell, S Ricardo Jones, S Khalil Barnes, CB Ashton Hampton Terrell and Hampton provide a strong cornerback duo, with true freshman Hampton emerging as a standout. At safety, Barnes is locked in, but the second spot remains up for grabs. Watch for Kylon Griffin, Jones, or even some surprises like Rob Billings or Ronan Hanafin to step up.
Specialists: K Nolan Hauser, P Jack Smith Hauser has solidified his role as the Tigers’ kicker, but punter Jack Smith, waiting in the wings for three years, will need to prove himself as a reliable option this spring. If he struggles, Clemson might look to the transfer portal for a punter.
Clemson’s roster is stacked and ready for an exciting 2025 campaign, with key players at every position vying to make an impact and lead the Tigers to greatness. Stay tuned for what promises to be an unforgettable season!
