With Mackensie Alexander on to the NFL and Adrian Baker sidelined by a torn ACL, the competition for the starting cornerback job opposite Cordrea Tankersley is wide-open.

Marcus Edmond, a redshirt junior from Hopkins, flashed as a worthy candidate during last weekend’s Orange and White spring game. His 53-yard interception return was one of the few explosive plays of the afternoon.

“I had a couple of interceptions during other timesin spring practice,” he said. “It feels great. I feel like I was in good position on that play. I just came down with the ball and tried to return it.”

As a whole, the spring went well for Edmond, who played over 60 snaps during his first two seasons at Clemson.

“I feel like I had a great spring overall,” he said. “Really perfected more of my craft as I became more focused.”

The spring game didn’t receive as positive of a review. Not quite.

“I had some good plays, a couple of bad plays. I felt my coverage, it was good overall,” Edmond said. “I just gave up the out-and-up. There are some things I’ve got to work on.”

This summer will be critical, not only for Edmond, but for Mark Fields and Ryan Carter, two other returning cornerbacks with an eye on Alexander’s old job.

“That’s the goal, to win one of the starting spots, to take advantage of the opportunity,” Edmond said.

Technique will be refined, and he’ll continue to work on his speed strength, to help ensure that he’s in the starting 11 by the time Clemson departs for Auburn in September.

“I just have to come out there and work every day and compete,” Edmond said. “I have to work hard and try to get this spot.”

Mentally and physically, he’s there.

“I’m probably more focused, just ready to take advantage of the opportunity that I have,” Edmond said.