The Clemson Tigers are making waves in the transfer portal under the leadership of head coach Dabo Swinney, marking a new era for the program as they add scholarship players for the first time. Among the standout additions is defensive end Will Heldt, formerly of Purdue, who looks set to team up with T.J. Parker for a fearsome pass-rushing duo. Parker, a key piece in Clemson’s future defense, was successfully retained, ensuring a formidable defense in 2025, with rising stars like Al Woods at defensive tackle and Sammy Brown at linebacker.
However, the Tigers are facing a tough loss as veteran defensive lineman Tre Williams has decided to enter the transfer portal. After a standout career with Clemson from 2020 to 2024, Williams, a graduate transfer with a degree in sociology, is leaving the program to pursue opportunities elsewhere. Over 44 games, he accumulated 35 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 4.0 sacks, establishing himself as a disruptive force in the trenches. His consistent playmaking, including 2.0 sacks and two fumble recoveries, made him a valuable asset on defense.
Williams, a top-150 recruit from Windsor, Connecticut, was highly regarded when he committed to Clemson in 2020. Given his pedigree and proven track record, expect him to be a highly sought-after talent in the portal. He’s now the fifth scholarship player to seek new opportunities, joining wide receivers Anthony Stellato and Noble Johnson, safety Sherrod Covil Jr. (heading to Virginia Tech), and defensive end A.J. Hoffler (still undecided).
As Clemson retools its roster for the future, the departure of Williams adds another layer to their growing transfer portal story.
