The Clemson Tigers and defensive coordinator Tom Allen are pressing forward early in the transfer portal cycle, reaching out to Justin Denson Jr., a transfer safety from Michigan State Spartans, while also hosting Chris Bracy, a productive veteran from Memphis Tigers, on campus Sunday.
The dual developments underscore Clemson’s urgency to rebuild a defensive backfield that underwent massive offseason turnover.
Denson Jr. Enters the Picture
Denson, a 6-foot-2, 200-pound defensive back, is the fourth safety Clemson has been reported to contact since the portal opened. He is rated as a three-star transfer and brings valuable remaining eligibility, having preserved a redshirt during the 2025 season.
Coming out of the 2024 recruiting class, Denson was regarded as one of the top defensive backs in Pennsylvania and held offers from several national programs before choosing Michigan State. As a true freshman, he showed promise, appearing in eight games and allowing zero catches while logging his highest snap total in the season finale against Rutgers.
His limited action in 2025 allowed him to retain three years of eligibility — a notable factor for Clemson, which is seeking both immediate help and long-term depth.
Bracy Brings Experience — and Production
While Denson represents upside, Bracy offers experience.
The 6-foot-1, 195-pound safety started 11 games last season for Memphis, finishing with 62 tackles, an interception, a forced fumble and five pass breakups. Over three collegiate seasons split between Memphis and UAB Blazers, Bracy has totaled 116 tackles, two interceptions, two forced fumbles, 9.5 tackles for loss and 11 pass deflections.
His signature moment came against Arkansas, when he forced a game-saving fumble inside the Tigers’ 10-yard line late in a one-point win — a play that earned him conference Defensive Player of the Week honors.
“It was definitely a crazy moment,” Bracy said of the play. “It’s probably going to be one of the biggest plays of my career.”
Why the Push Is Urgent
Clemson’s secondary was among the program’s most pressing concerns in 2025, and the offseason only intensified that reality.
The Tigers lost six defensive backs to the portal, including ACC interception leader Ricardo Jones, and star corner Avieon Terrell, who declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. Clemson also missed on several high school targets during the 2026 cycle, accelerating the need for portal reinforcements.
In response, longtime safeties coach Mickey Conn was relieved of his duties, clearing the way for a wholesale reset under Allen.
What Comes Next
Beyond Denson and Bracy, Clemson is also evaluating Kansas transfer Lyrik Rawls, who is scheduled to visit Jan. 10–11, along with Florida State transfer Edwin Joseph Jr..
Clemson’s current safety room features limited experience, making the pursuit of proven collegiate snaps a priority as the Tigers reshape their defense for 2026.
The message from the staff is clear: the rebuild is active, targeted, and far from finished.