Clemson Football: Freshmen who will likely redshirt in 2023
By John Chancey
![Clemson defensive lineman David Ojiegbe (42) and defensive lineman Vic Burley (45) during the first practice at Clemson, S.C. Friday, August 4, 2023. Clemson defensive lineman David Ojiegbe (42) and defensive lineman Vic Burley (45) during the first practice at Clemson, S.C. Friday, August 4, 2023.](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/46dece2fbab474b9030baca08e89c75fbca748477c124751d3c8c8326c980b7d.jpg)
A.J. Hoffler
- Number: 99
- Position: Defensive End
- Height: 6’-4”
- Weight: 250 pounds
- High School: Woodward Academy
- Hometown: Stuart, Florida
- 247Sports Rating: 4-star
- 247Sports Ranking: 222nd
This is what 247Sports’s Cooper Pategna said of Hoffler as a high school prospect:
"“Projects to a five-technique defensive linemen in a base 4-3 defense, already 245-pounds, has the ability to add significant weight to his frame at the next level. Possesses a speed and quickness pass-rush foundation but will need to develop more consistency in his ability to play the run and win with play strength to become a complete defender. Long developing defensive lineman that has the ability to develop into a high level multi-year starter at the Power Five level.”"
TJ Parker looks like he will be part of the second string with Cade Denhoff. With Zaire Patterson likely in the third string, Hoffler will be battling fellow freshman David Ojiegbe for a spot beside him.
I’ve heard good things about both of them, so I am not certain which might have the advantage, and I am also not certain that it will make a big difference unless there are injuries ahead of them on the depth chart.
Right now I am leaning towards a redshirt for Hoffler but I don’t have high confidence that I know exactly where he stands in the big picture.