Clemson Tigers News: Peter Woods, Sammy Brown and Grady Jarrett

Multiple Clemson Tigers from the past, present, and future have been honored for their individual achievement.

Clemson Football freshman Peter Woods wins superlative from ESPN

ESPN created a list of thirty-nine superlatives for true freshmen in college football for 2023. They have named Peter Woods as “Best hand usage for a pass-rusher”. They say this about the freshman defensive tackle:

"“The top-rated defender in the 2023 class could slot into several of these categories but lands here as he makes up for any size deficiencies with quick and violent hands. Whether quickly pressing and shedding blockers to defend the run or knocking blockers’ hands down as a pass-rusher, he makes it difficult to get hands on him. This is usually one area where many top prospects need to improve upon entering college, but Woods is already strong with this skill, which should lead to an immediate impact for Clemson.”"

Woods is expected to get his fair share of playing time as a freshman, though there is speculation whether it will come at tackle or if he might be used at defensive end as well. RTR will have more on that point in the coming weeks.

Clemson Tigers commit Sammy Brown is named best linebacker by MaxPreps

Class of 2024 commitment Sammy Brown has been named MaxPreps #1 high school linebacker for 2023 by their writer Zack Poff.

Brown is preparing for his senior high school season at Jefferson High School in Georgia. He is a 5-star prospect in the 247Sports Composite ranking.

Clemson alum Grady Jarrett named to The NFL Top 100

Clemson Football alum Grady Jarrett has been named to the NFL Top 100 list. Jarrett is ranked 63rd.

The NFL Top 100 is voted on by the players themselves.

Jarrett is preparing for his ninth season in the NFL, all with the Atlanta Falcons. He was a standout for Clemson from 2011-14.

Congratulations to Caroline Jacobsen, who is playing professional softball for Athletes Unlimited. Jacobsen is playing for Team McCleney, who debuted yesterday evening. Unfortunately, weather interrupted the game in the 5th inning, so they will finish the contest Sunday.

We want to express our condolences to the family of Clemson Hall of Famer Ray Williams, who passed away Friday at the age of 58. He was a two-sport athlete at Clemson.

The Clemson Insider has a good review of Mr. Williams football and baseball career at Clemson.