Former Clemson Football players that could join the staff in the future

Christian Wilkins

Like Renfrow, Wilkins will be occupied for a few more years while he wreaks havoc on offenses. He just completed one of the best seasons for a defensive tackle ever in the NFL.

There is one simple reason why I think Wilkins will move into coaching eventually: there is no player from the last decade that personifies all of the qualities that have made Swinney a successful head coach more than Wilkins.

He has the personality. His charisma is undeniable. He is personable and easily relates to those around him. He knows when to get to work and knows when to lighten the mood. He has future head coach written all over him.

Is he the kind of guy that wants to put in the grind working his way up the ladder? That is a good question, and I do not know the answer. I could also easily see Wilkins move into a broadcasting role for all the same reasons I just quoted about his personality.

Swinney noted that Wilkins wasn’t intimidated by the grind on the practice field:

"“He’s one of the most unique and dynamic young people that I’ve ever had the chance to be around. He’s just a special human being. What you see is what you get. He’s just so authentic. He’s high energy every day. He’s passionate. He loves to practice. He loves school. He loves the grind of it. He’s just one of those guys that’s always working and sets such an example for everybody else.”"

Maybe Wilkins would find a career as a coach appealing.