CLEMSON – The return of fifth-year safety RJ Mickens was a big one for the Clemson defense that lost a lot of veteran pieces after 2023. He’s one of the most experienced players on Wes Goodwin’s defense for 2024, and he discussed why this decision felt right.

Mickens had nine starts last season, playing in 11 games and totaling 42 tackles. He’s a key piece of the defensive backfield, and he described how the choice came to be after the first day of spring practice.

“I wouldn’t say it was a tough decision. A lot of thought went into it and a lot of prayer went into it and it definitely took some time for me to make that decision but as soon as I knew what I was going to do, it just felt right and I was fully committed to that,” Mickens said. “I had a good talk with Coach Swinney then talked with my dad and just sat and prayed about it for a couple days then told them I was going to make the decision and put it out there.”

This decision had two pieces to it. Mickens said he wants to better himself as both a player and person, and this year is an opportunity for him to do that. Beyond himself, the way the 2023 season went didn’t sit well with him and he wishes to this year different.

When he was a freshman, Clemson went to the College Football Playoff and that’s something he wants to do this season. It means even more considering he would have a large role in that effort.

“It was both. I just felt like my freshman year, whenever went to the playoff, I didn’t really contribute and I felt like that was something I always wanted to do. Play in the playoffs and go to the top of the mountain. I feel like we had the team to do that, we just didn’t get it done last year,” Mickens said,

Heading into 2024, he’ll be the starter at strong safety and the Tigers are all the better for having his expertise and experience on the defense.