Clemson Football: Three questions about the tight ends

Is there anyone behind Jake Briningstool on the Clemson Football depth chart that can make a difference?

One question that exists is the depth behind Briningstool. The two scholarship players who aren’t true freshmen, Ennis and Sapp, don’t have very much experience. Ennis has dealt with injuries most of his Clemson tenure. Sapp is viewed as a player who will likely be important to special teams this season, but there haven’t been many mentions of playing considerable time at tight end.

The backups might be very good, we just don’t know because there is very little experience.

If Briningstool were to miss significant time, then one option is to utilize the four-receiver set more often. When a tight end is needed as a blocker, then Ennis or Sapp can do the job.

One other name has grabbed some attention due to a very good spring game. Walk-on Banks Pope made several receptions in the annual scrimmage. Pope is a redshirt sophomore from Columbia, South Carolina. He played at AC Flora High School as a defensive end and a right tackle before switching to tight end. He initially committed to Appalachian State before walking on at Clemson.

At 6’-4” and 240 pounds, he has the size to be an effective tight end. The Tigers will also have Henry and Dixon, both of whom have people excited about what they can do. Pope did just enough to bring up the possibility that if Briningstool gets hurt and the Tigers need a tight end who can catch the ball, he might see the field.