July has arrived and the start of camp is on the horizon. In our Camp Countdown series we will look at each position and discuss some of the questions heading into camp.
In the fourth edition we take a look at the defensive ends.
Clemson lost two defensive ends that were drafted in the first 33 picks of the NFL draft so there are big question marks heading into camp at defensive end. There is plenty of talent ready to keep DEU going for the Tigers however.
The biggest question is who will start opposite of Austin Bryant at defensive end. Austin Bryant is set to start at strong-side defensive end. There will be a big battle for the starting position at weak-side defensive end in August.
Clelin Ferrell and Richard Yeargin had a good battle during the spring. Ferrell had to sit last season due to an injury. If not he likely would have made a good contribution. Ferrell brings a 6-5, 255 pound frame that has had a year in the Clemson strength program to get his body ready. The redshirt freshmen is very athletic and has very good speed coming off the edge. By the end of spring Ferrell had edged ahead of Yeargin according to the coaches, but the battle will be heated during camp and all season long.
Will Richard Yeargin be able to make a major move in camp? Yeargin saw some playing time last year and has the advantage of some experience. He will certainly get plenty of playing time this fall. How much will be determined on how the battle shakes out in camp and how he and Clelin perform when the season gets underway.
How much time will Christian Wilkins see at defensive end during camp? During the spring coach Venables rotated Wilkins between defensive tackle and defensive end. Wilkins is a freak athlete that can be dominant in either position. His versatility will give Clemson good depth at defensive end this year.
Austin Bryant showed in the college football playoff that he can get the job done on the biggest stage there is. One of the things we will learn in camp and this season is if Bryant is ready to become the leader at defensive end. Bryant’s confidence took a big boost due to his play in the playoffs. Now we will see if he can take his leadership and his game to the next level.
Another question for camp will be the development of Chris Register. Register made the move last year from linebacker to defensive end. The former high school All-American could be a big boost to the defense if he can begin to provide a significant contribution at defensive end. The adjustment period should be over for Register. We will find out during camp if he is ready to see the field this fall and help the Tigers.
Milan Richard will get his first chance to make an impact for Clemson this season at tight end. Richard know understands the offense well and is ready to be a threat in the passing game. How ready is Richard to play significant snaps will be determined during camp. Richard has great athletic ability. A good camp would help build his confidence and set the foundation for a productive season.
Another question that will be answered during camp is will freshman Xavier Kelly be ready to help this season. Kelly is physically ready to contribute immediately. The key will be how quick he picks up the defense during camp. If Xavier shows he is ready to contribute as a true freshmen the depth at defensive end will be in good shape.
Heading into camp there are plenty of questions at defensive end. There is plenty of talent that just needs some experience. Don’t be surprised if the Tigers once again have outstanding play off the edge again this season.
TCI’s Clemson preseason magazine is now available. Order your copy of Unfinished Business – An Insider Look at Clemson’s 2016 season today.
