Clemson Football: 5 Position Battles to watch during spring practice 2019

SANTA CLARA, CA - JANUARY 07: Jalen Hurts #2 of the Alabama Crimson Tide is tackled by Justin Foster #35 of the Clemson Tigers in the CFP National Championship presented by AT&T at Levi's Stadium on January 7, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

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SANTA CLARA, CA – JANUARY 07: Christian Wilkins #42 of the Clemson Tigers celebrates with the trophy after his teams 44-16 win over the Alabama Crimson Tide in the CFP National Championship presented by AT&T at Levi’s Stadium on January 7, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

1. Defensive Line

Competition is wide open along the defensive line heading into the spring.

The Tigers lose all four starters in Clelin Ferrell (DE), Austin Bryant (DE), Christian Wilkins (DT) and Dexter Lawrence (DT), as well as valuable back-up Albert Huggins (DT).

That leaves a lot of room for players to emerge.

At defensive tackle, Nyles Pinckney and Jordan Williams are the expected starters, but both of those guys are injured and out for the spring. That means we will see even more competition as Xavier Kelly, Darnell Jefferies and talented freshman Tyler Davis get their shot to prove they deserve playing time.

You could potentially see a defensive end move inside to provide more depth at that position, as well.

Next. What to watch for as spring practice begins. dark

At defensive end, Xavier Thomas and Justin Foster are expected to be the starters, but KJ Henry will be pushing Foster hard for playing time. You’ll also have Logan Rudoplh, Justin Foster and a plethora of freshmen in the mix for competition.

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