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Clemson football: Nolan Turner signs free agent contract with Tampa Bay Buccaneers

By John Chancey

Clemson safety Nolan Turner talks with media in Clemson, S.C., Tuesday, October 26, 2021.Clemson Interviews Clemson Safety Nolan Turner
Clemson safety Nolan Turner talks with media in Clemson, S.C., Tuesday, October 26, 2021.Clemson Interviews Clemson Safety Nolan Turner /
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Clemson football only had two players selected in the 2022 NFL Draft, but post-draft multiple players signed free agent contracts.

Nolan Turner – Safety, 2016-21

Signed with: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Quick take: I think some analysts thought there was a chance that a good pro day may have put Turner on the board for a few teams, but most projections indicated that we wasn’t likely to be drafted. Still, for a guy that wasn’t heralded as a recruit to put himself in the NFL is impressive.

It remains to be seen what chance Turner has to make the roster. Tampa Bay isn’t lacking at the position this season. They signed two free agents that can play safety, among other roles. There was some speculation that the Bucs might draft a safety, but they ultimately decided against that. Their only defensive backfield selection this year was a cornerback.

It might be tough for Turner to make the Bucs roster this season given their depth at his position, but next season might be a different situation entirely. The free agents they signed are on one-year deals, and another safety’s contract expires at the end of this season as well. Turner might be able to demonstrate his value on special teams, but I think his best bet might be to get a spot on Tampa Bay’s practice squad. He can get a year of experience under his belt and then push for a spot on the main roster in 2023.

Clemson highlights:

  • 259 tackles
  • 13.5 tackles for loss
  • 20 passes broken up
  • 7 interceptions
  • 3.0 sacks
  • 2 forced fumbles

Draft Projections:

  • ESPN Jordan Reid: Undrafted
  • CBS Ryan Wilson: Undrafted
  • CBS Josh Edwards: Undrafted
  • Sporting News: Undrafted
  • Walterfootball.com: Undrafted
  • Drafttek: 7th Round

Dabo’s take (at 2018 Fiesta Bowl):

"“He was very disappointed in himself and felt like he let the team down. Unfortunately, they were going to score. That’s one thing I told him: ‘You gotta keep your head up. You’re going to make a winning interception and just have to go to the next play.'”"

Next. Mario Goodrich signs with Eagles. dark

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