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5 under the radar players for Clemson Football

There are some players who fans aren't focused on that could make bigger contributions in 2024 than most people might expect.

By John Chancey

Clemson wide receiver Cole Turner (22) catches a pass in a pass drill during the first day of Spring practice at the Poe Indoor Practice Facility at the Allen N. Reeves football complex in Clemson S.C. Wednesday, February 28, 2024.
Clemson wide receiver Cole Turner (22) catches a pass in a pass drill during the first day of Spring practice at the Poe Indoor Practice Facility at the Allen N. Reeves football complex in Clemson S.C. Wednesday, February 28, 2024. / Ken Ruinard / staff / USA TODAY NETWORK
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Jeadyn Lukus

Lukus is another example of a guy who has played well when he has been on the field. He just hasn’t been on the field very often during his first two seasons.

Lukus’s injury problems started in Spring 2022 when he was an early enrollee. As a result, he wasn’t at full strength until later in the 2022 season. When injuries depleted the cornerback room, the Tigers turned to Toriano Pride.

As Lukus got stronger, he found more playing time. He got an interception to end one of the Tar Heels’ last attempts to score in the 2022 ACC Championship game.

He beat out Pride to become the primary backup to Nate Wiggins and Sheridan Jones in 2023 (Pride later transferred) until he was injured again. This time Lukus was ruled out for the balance of the season.

While most believe Lukus will be able to play at full speed this fall, the sophomores Avieon Terrell and Shelton Lewis have grabbed the spotlight. Most observers lean toward Lewis being the second starter at corner over Lukus.

While Lewis showed flashes of talent as a freshman, Lukus holds two advantages. The first is size. Lukus is 6’-2” while Lewis is 5’-10”. Lukus could draw the assignment against larger wide receivers.

The second is experience. While Lukas has missed a lot of time in his first two seasons, he still has more field time than Lewis. That shined through a bit in the Gator Bowl. Lewis gave a great effort but was taken advantage of by Devin Leary and more experienced Kentucky receivers.

NEXT: Vic Burley

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