Clemson Football Redshirt Report: Darnell Jefferies, Defensive Tackle

As we continue our Clemson football redshirt report, let’s take a look at Tiger defensive tackle Darnell Jefferies and his ability to contribute in 2019.

The 2018 Clemson football team was the best in the nation.

The Tigers came away with a perfect 15-0 record that included a National Championship victory over Alabama, a CFB Playoff berth and an ACC Championship.

There were several talented players that redshirted during the 2018 season and will be looking to make an impact in this coming year.

One of those guys is defensive tackle Darnell Jefferies.

Analysis:

Jefferies came entered the Clemson football program as a 3-star defensive tackle with some very promising skills.

He has put on a little weight, from what I can tell, and should be playing up around the 285-295 level by the time the 2019 season is upon us.

Jefferies is explosive out of the stance and has the ability to cut in between blockers, as well as clog the interior line and stop the run.

The bright side is that Jefferies got to learn from two of the best in the business. From all accounts, both Christian Wilkins and Dexter Lawrence took time teaching and helping in the development of the younger defensive tackles, which bodes well for the Tigers.

Where does he fit?

I think you’re going to see him factor into the two-deep behind Nyles Pinckney and Jordan Williams. Jefferies will have to compete with talented 4-star product Tyler Davis, who is an early enrollee, and Xavier Kelly, a guy that originally came into play defensive end, but has since transferred to defensive tackle.

Jefferies is going to play meaningful snaps in 2019, no doubt. The defensive tackle depth is just too thin for him not to play.

What I believe you’ll see is him develop during the season.

He may not be the most consistent or most talented defensive tackle early on in the season, but he could develop into a very consistent player before the season is over.