<\/p>\n
We now move one level back in our Clemson position group spotlights to look at the linebackers. It’s a position that is very special for the program. Some of the greatest and most beloved Tigers played the linebacker position. Head coach Dabo Swinney seems to have an eye for talent at the second level.<\/p>\n
Most recently former Clemson linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr was picked by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2024 draft. Trotter went on to be a part of the championship-winning Eagles team as a rookie. This year Barrett Carter is projected to go within the first three rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft. Looking at this year\u2019s group of linebackers, it looks like the trend of great Clemson linebackers will not be ending soon.<\/p>\n
The player who will be the staple of the 2025 Clemson defense is Wade Woodaz<\/a>. The senior will return to Death Valley in 2025 after leading the team in tackles last season with 83 total. To go with that Woodaz also had 10 tackles for loss, three sacks, five forced fumbles, and an interception. He has been an impact player for the Tiger\u2019s defense for the last few seasons. He did not disappoint, moving into the full-time starter role alongside Carter in 2024. Woodaz will be looked to as the leader of the defense and the tone-setter.<\/p>\n Who will start next to Woodaz in the Tigers’ base 4-2 front is a little more unknown. When Defensive Coordinator Tom Allen<\/a> runs any 3-3 front looks with a walk-up linebacker we\u2019ll see both Jeremiah Alexander<\/a> and Sammy Brown<\/a> on the field. Alexander will be that linebacker moved up on the line of scrimmage playing on the edge. Brown will likely get the nod in the base two linebacker set. He has been in the program longer and has played more defensive snaps thus far in his career even as the younger player.<\/p>\n It also makes sense for Brown\u2019s progression. He was named 2024 ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year. So, Brown\u2019s next steps should lead him to a full-time starting role. Both Brown and Alexander will get a ton of reps in 2025 though. They are each vital pieces in improving the Clemson defense.<\/p>\n Moving down the depth chart, there are a few players who can be mixed in with the second unit. First is junior Jamal Anderson<\/a>, son of former Atlanta Falcons running back of the same name. The younger Anderson has played 123 career snaps. In those limited snaps, the junior has 11 total tackles, one tackle for loss, and a sack. He stood out in last year\u2019s spring game finishing with four tackles and an interception. He will have a chance to do it again on April 5th.<\/p>\n Next to him would be redshirt Junior Kobe McCloud<\/a>, another Tiger from a football family. McCloud suffered a season-ending injury against Appalachian State in week two. He is still getting back to himself as he continues to recover from surgery. Many in the program were excited about McCloud’s development before the injury. If he can get back to form he will be a key depth piece for the Tiger defense.<\/p>\n A name that has been said to be standing out early in Spring sessions though is a pretty familiar one. Reports have said redshirt freshman Drew Woodaz<\/a> has stood out early on in spring practices. The younger Woodaz played in just two games last season but is said to be much improved from a year ago. Unlike Wade, Drew played linebacker in high school. So, he has a more natural feel for the position and has high potential especially as he continues filling out his frame.<\/p>\n Woodaz is not the only player who will be looking to take major steps in their development this spring. Redshirt sophomore Dee Crayton<\/a> has been working to make the best of his opportunities so far. The former top-10 Georgia recruit has gotten spurts of playing time and is looking to compete for much more.<\/p>\nLikely Backups<\/h3>\n
Young Players To Watch<\/h3>\n