Clemson Football in good standing with another versatile 2019 TE prospect

AUBURN, AL - SEPTEMBER 03: The Clemson Tigers mascot looks on prior to the game between the Auburn Tigers and the Clemson Tigers at Jordan Hare Stadium on September 3, 2016 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
AUBURN, AL - SEPTEMBER 03: The Clemson Tigers mascot looks on prior to the game between the Auburn Tigers and the Clemson Tigers at Jordan Hare Stadium on September 3, 2016 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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The Clemson football program is looking to reload at the tight end position. The Tigers hold a commitment from 2019 prospect, Jaelyn Lay and are in good standing with fellow 2019 prospect, Luke Deal.

While Clemson has depth at tight end, they aren’t overly talented at the position. Veterans, Milan Richard, Garrett Williams and Cannon Smith return in 2018. All three are consistent players, however, none are feared receiving threats.

After losing former Tiger, Jordan Leggett, the Tigers haven’t been as productive at the tight end position. Youngsters, JC Chalk and Brendan Galloway provide hope for the future with their respective blends of size and athleticism.

That being said, Clemson is working to build more quality depth at the position and that starts on the recruiting trail. Current 2019 commit, Jaelyn Lay is similar to Galloway in his wiry frame. Both are former basketball players, bursting with potential.

Deal high on Clemson

Fellow 2019 recruit, Luke Deal appears to be high on the Tigers. Clemson currently holds all three of the crystal ball predictions for the South Carolina native.

Deal is more of an old school tight end. While he is certainly a weapon in the passing game, it’s his ability to block that jumps out on tape. In the modern spread era, its rare to see a tight end prospect playing with his hand in the dirt.

Deal is similar to Garrett Williams in that sense. He may not be as dynamic an athlete as Lay, but, he brings an equally versatile skill set to the table. The great thing about Deal is his 6-foot-5, 237 pound frame. While he is solid as it is, he has room to improve physically.

In-state success

As I detailed earlier in the year, South Carolina is a bit bare in the 2019 recruiting cycle. Deal is one of just two in-state prospects to hold an offer from Clemson at the moment.

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As we move deeper into the recruiting calendar, we may see Dabo Swinney and company dole out more offers within the state. Either way, Deal is a heck of a football player, one that Clemson could certainly use on offense.