Clemson’s defensive front will look very different when the Tigers take the field at Yankee Stadium—but that change comes with opportunity.
With T.J. Parker, Peter Woods, and DeMonte Capehart all opting out of the Pinstripe Bowl, Clemson will effectively roll out a reworked defensive line against Penn State. Three starting spots are open, and bowl practices have quickly turned into auditions for the next wave up front.
Defensive coordinator Tom Allen has been clear about the mindset: next man up, and this is a chance to prove it.
Mayo and Watford Emerging Up Front
One of the names generating the most buzz during bowl prep is Darien Mayo, a towering 6-foot-7, 270-pound edge rusher who appeared in six games this season but is now stepping into a larger role.
“I expect big things from him moving forward,” Allen said. “He’s gotten more reps, and this time of year creates opportunity.”
That confidence is shared inside the locker room. Junior defensive end Will Heldt, who recently announced his return for next season, has seen Mayo’s growth firsthand.
“He’s been coming along really well,” Heldt said. “Looking forward to him getting some more opportunities.”
Another player gaining momentum is Ari Watford, a true freshman who continues to build confidence after returning from a torn ACL suffered in high school. Cleared in mid-September, Watford has steadily increased his workload during bowl practices.
“He’s getting a lot of reps right now,” Allen said. “When you come back from that type of injury, it takes time. But I wouldn’t be surprised if you see him play—and I’m really excited about his future.”
Champ Thompson Forcing the Issue
The ripple effect of defensive line turnover extends beyond the edge.
Linebacker Sammy Brown pointed to Champ Thompson as another player seizing the moment during bowl prep.
“Mayo and Champ have really been coming along in these bowl practices, especially Champ,” Brown said. “Watching the film, he’s been hooping in practice. It’s really cool to see him step into that role, and I think he’s going to be a big part of our game.”
Thompson, a redshirt freshman from Florida, could see extended snaps as Clemson rotates bodies up front against a physical Penn State offense.
A Tryout on a National Stage
For Allen, the Pinstripe Bowl represents more than just a postseason matchup—it’s a live evaluation window.
“You’ve got guys at every level who haven’t played a lot early in the season,” Allen said. “Some played more later, and now several are getting a real opportunity through bowl practices—and during the game.”
With roster turnover looming and competition wide open heading into 2026, the performance of Clemson’s defensive line at Yankee Stadium could help shape next season’s depth chart.
On a big stage, with unfamiliar faces, Clemson’s defensive future is about to get its first real look.