Veteran offensive lineman confirms his return to Clemson in 2025

At the beginning of the season, one of the biggest concerns for Clemson was its offensive line. People put much blame for last season's mediocre performance upon Cade Klubnik’s shoulders, but he deserves a little grace.

In 2023, the OL gave up over two sacks a game, with most coming against conference opponents. There wasn't much Klubnik could do when running for his life most of the time. The OL was better in the running game, helping Clemson rush for over 170 yards per game. However, the position is much improved this season.

The Tigers are gaining nearly 200 yards per game on the ground this season, 30 more per game than in 2023. But the biggest difference is the sacks given up. After seven games, Clemson’s OL has given up only six sacks. The group went from giving up over two sacks a game to allowing less than one after only one off-season. That’s incredible progress.

Luckily, a significant piece of this year‘s OL revealed his plans for next season. While talking to the media, right guard Walker Parks confirmed Dabo Swinney's comments in September that the redshirt senior would return for a sixth and final season.

“Yeah, that’s fully my plan now,” Parks said. “I’ve got another year of eligibility. I have no intentions of leaving. So, I love this place, I love this team, and like I said, I would play here forever if they let me. I think they’re gonna give me another year, so I’ll take it.”

After missing most of last season with a season-ending ankle injury, Parks has a chance to make up for lost time. But as a unit, Parks' intentions mean that all but one starting offensive lineman has the opportunity to return for 2025.

Marcus Tate played significant snaps as a true freshman, starting in eight games. But because he started after the Covid season, he won't be awarded a fifth year of eligibility. However, the talented redshirt sophomore Collin Sadler is on deck.