Clemson Football Redshirt Report: Logan Rudolph
Throughout the offseason, Rubbing The Rock will be taking a look at the members of Clemson football’s 2017 recruiting class who redshirted last fall. Today we’ll be examining defensive end, Logan Rudolph.
Related Story: 2017 Redshirt Report: Baylon Spector
Logan Rudolph (DE) Rock Hill, South Carolina:
Rudolph, the younger brother of Oklahoma State quarterback, Mason Rudolph, was off to a strong start in 2017, before suffering a season ending injury during practice in mid-September.
Clemson football defensive coordinator, Brent Venables cross-trained Rudolph at outside linebacker and defensive end, ultimately settling on the ladder due to depth concerns.
If it wasn’t for his injury, Rudolph would have earned a significant amount of reps as Clelin Ferrell’s back up.
Strengths
Rudolph is as violent as they come. Analysts often overuse the phrase “high motor” when describing players, especially defensive lineman. That being said, Rudolph is the definition of a high motor guy and that is clear when you put on the tape.
Regardless if he is near the play or not, Rudolph is always going full-tilt. You can acquire skills over time but you can’t teach effort and Rudolph was simply born with it.
I am also impressed with Rudolph’s active hands. Many blue-chip defensive lineman playing on the high school level bulldoze their way past opposing offensive lineman without much though. Unfortunately, when they get to college they are lacking from a pass rushing technique standpoint.
Rudolph displayed active and violent hands on the high school level. He does a good job of using his length to create space between himself and blockers in order to read and react to the play.
Expectations in 2018
The Tigers’ depth at defensive end is downright silly. Austin Bryant and Ferrell headline a group chock-full of former blue-chip recruits. Rudolph will have to compete with fellow 2017 signee, Justin Foster as well as incoming freshman, Xavier Thomas and KJ Henry.
Playing time certainly won’t come easy, especially given the fact that he is coming off of a shoulder surgery. That being said, Rudolph has shown he can push through injuries in the past.
Leading up to last season, Clelin Ferrell told The State the following of Rudolph:
"He’s been dealing with a little bit of a shoulder, but he’s past that now. When he was injured with a shoulder he was fighting through it. You can see how tough he is and the intensity he plays with is something I hone in on."
Next: 2018 Clemson Baseball Preview: Lineup, expectations.
If Rudolph is even close to 100 percent this off-season, he will be squarely in the mix for playing time in 2018. Who knows, maybe he could earn reps at linebacker as well with Dorian O’Daniel moving on to the NFL.