Clemson Football Newcomers: Jordan Williams
With fall camp on the horizon, I wanted to take one last look at Clemson’s 2017 signees. A few of these true freshman may push for playing time this season. Today’s edition features defensive end, Jordan Williams.
The Clemson football program doesn’t venture into the state of Virginia often, however, incoming freshman defensive end, Jordan Williams is the latest exception to that rule. Hailing from Frank W. Cox High School in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Williams is a handful coming off of the edge.
Recruitment:
A consensus four-star prospect, Williams held offers from just about every major college program, from Alabama to USC. His recruitment came down to Clemson, Tennessee, Virginia, Ohio State and Virginia Tech. As we all know Williams chose to play his college ball in Death Valley, committing to the Tigers in August of 2016.
Check out his film here.
More freshman profiles: Justin Foster
Chances at playing time:
Coming into the offseason, I didn’t think that Williams had a shot at playing as a true freshman. This was mainly due to the experienced talent that the Tigers were bringing back. Now, with the loss of Richard Yeargin and Lasamuel Davis at defensive end, Clemson is hurting for depth at the position. That’s where Williams comes in.
Once again, the Tigers meticulous scouting methods are paying off. Williams is a blank canvas, he has just begun to scratch the surface of his 6-foot-4, 260 pound frame. The Virginia native’s freakishly long limbs allow him to create separation in pass rushing situations. Williams can stand to improve upon his strength at the point of attack, but, with his raw athleticism and explosion he may be able to provide Clemson will valuable rotational reps in 2017.
Expectations in year one:
While Williams has the tools to relieve either Austin Bryant and Clelin Ferrell on pass rushing downs, that will not be enough to keep him from taking a redshirt in 2017. Ahead of Williams will be Chris Register and Xavier Kelly, not to mention the prospect of sliding Christian Wilkins out to defensive end. It will be difficult for Williams to overtake any of those three on the depth chart before the season opener arrives.
Next: Top 5 defensive players entering 2017
This 2017 recruiting class has the pieces to catapult Clemson back to the National Championship in two to three years. It is not a guarantee that each of these true freshman will play this season, however, there is plenty of future impact players waiting in the wings. Williams is yet another weapon in the Tigers arsenal of defensive lineman.