Clemson Football: What do the Tigers get in 4-star DE Zaire Patterson?
4-star DE Zaire Patterson commits to the Clemson football program
The 2021 Clemson football recruiting class continues to stay among the top group in the nation and nothing seems to be slowing the Tigers down.
The Tigers picked up their 13th commitment Tuesday afternoon when 4-star DE Zaire Patterson announced his decision.
Patterson, who is ranked No. 245 overall nationally and as the No. 18 weakside defensive end in the country, chose Clemson over in-state rival South Carolina.
With his commitment, the 2021 Clemson football recruiting class remained No. 3 overall nationally according to the 247 Sports’ Composite Team Rankings, but improved their overall star average to 94.55.
What does Patterson bring to Clemson football?
Patterson has all the measurables and upside to see why he garnered so many offers. We’re talking about a 6-foot-6 defensive end who currently weighs around 230 pounds, but has the frame to play at upwards of 250-260 pounds at the next level.
He projects as a weakside defensive end in Brent Venables’ 4-3 scheme and will be comfortable rushing the passer from a down stance, as well as lining up as an outside linebacker on some odd-front formations.
Patterson isn’t the defensive end who’s going to come in and start from Day 1, but he is a guy who could make an impact and has all the potential in the world to develop into an elite defensive end. Keep in mind that many of the best defensive ends that have passed through the Clemson football program weren’t early contributors. See Clelin Ferrell, Vic Beasley (who wasn’t even a defensive end when he arrived on campus) and Shaq Lawson for reference.
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With Patterson’s commitment, Clemson now has met its goal of two defensive ends in the class as he joins fellow 4-star Cade Denhoff. There are a few potential over-sign candidates, including 5-star Korey Foreman and 4-star Dallas Turner, but those decisions and commitments would likely happen after the Tigers fill other needs at this point.