5 redshirt freshmen who can make an impact for Clemson Football

When people think of redshirt freshmen, they usually assume that they are projects or guys who are destined to be depth pieces. Long gone are the days when difference makers are kept on the bench simply because they are freshmen.

There are exceptions to that generalization. With the new rules that allow minimal playing time without burning the redshirt, players who are injured or otherwise impacted by circumstances beyond their control can redshirt and preserve a season of eligibility.

Clemson Football has a handful of players who fit into that category that have the potential to make an impact this season. Here are five (or maybe more) examples of redshirt freshmen who could make a difference on the field for the Tigers this season.

Vic Burley

Position: Defensive Tackle

Hometown: Warner Robins, Georgia

High School: Warner Robins High School

247Sports Composite Rating: 5-star

Height: 6’-4”

Weight: 315 pounds

Reason for redshirt: Injury

Burley was the only member of the Class of 2023 who received a 5-star rating in the Composite. He joined a group of very talented defensive tackles that included two players (Tyler Davis and Ruke Orhorhoro) who would be drafted by the NFL in 2024.

As such, it wasn’t shocking that Burley didn’t break into the starting lineup. He was expected to get a fair amount of snaps. A redshirt wasn’t something a lot of people predicted…until he got injured.

Burley ended up missing the majority of 2023 and a redshirt was placed on him. Going into 2024, there are still players ahead of him right now. Demonte Capehart and Payton Page will likely be starters. If Tre Williams can get healthy, he will get snaps too.

With Peter Woods potentially playing more defensive end than tackle, that means Burley could challenge for the two-deep. Stephiylan Green is another redshirt freshman who could make a move this season as well.

NEXT: Misun Kelley