Clemson Football: Several Freshmen getting reps at defensive tackle

To build depth along the defensive line, several freshmen are getting reps at defensive tackle for Clemson football during spring practice.

The Clemson football team is in full spring practice mode.

The Tigers have several practices under their belt now and are attempting to make progress in preparing for the upcoming season.

Because of the lack of depth at defensive tackle, several freshmen are getting reps at the position and could potentially break into the depth chart before it’s all said and done.

How is everything shaping up?

So, right now, there’s a lot of moving parts when it comes to the defensive line.

The Tigers are without Jordan Williams and Nyles Pinckney- the expected starters at defensive tackle- due to injury. Because of that, a lot of young guys are getting more reps than what they originally would have expected.

Here’s how everything is shaping up at the defensive line, right now with each player’s classification beside them.

Defensive End: Xavier Thomas (sophomore), Justin Foster (junior), Logan Rudolph (redshirt sophomore), KJ Henry (sophomore), Justin Mascoll (RS. Freshman).

Defensive Tackle: Pinckney (redshirt junior), Williams (redshirt sophomore)- both injured for the spring. Xavier Kelly (redshirt junior), Darnell Jefferies (redshirt freshman), Tyler Davis (freshman), Etinosa Reuben (freshman), Ruke Orhorhoro (freshman), Logan Cash (freshman).

I wouldn’t be surprised to see one of those freshmen transfer and play defensive end, but right now the coaches are letting them play where they can get reps. Possibly a guy like Cash or Orhororo could be taking reps at both DE and DT, especially since Tayquon Johnson will be on campus later this summer to play defensive tackle, as well.

As you can see, the Tigers have a lot of young options and it will be intriguing to see how things unfold as we get deeper into spring.