Wade Woodaz
Woodaz isn’t a guy that immediately screams ‘NFL Linebacker’, so including him on this list doesn’t seem logical at first, but this isn’t completely impossible.
Woodaz is a guy who can cover from the linebacker position. Can he cover like a corner? No. Is he the ideal for the nickel/safety hybrid position? No, which is why Clemson has shifted from using a strong-side linebacker to using three safeties most of the time.
For a linebacker, Woodaz is good in coverage. He had two interceptions in 2023 and returned one for a touchdown. Trotter also had two interceptions and a touchdown return.
Woodaz ended up being a good complement to either Trotter or Carter when he rotated in last season, and that is why I think it is possible he could be in for a bigger season than most expect.
If the Gator Bowl is a sign of how seriously Carter was motivated to improve his NFL Draft stock, then he will be a terror for offensive blockers. If he is getting special attention, Woodaz could be the man who benefits from the opportunities that could arise.
I wouldn’t call Woodaz to the NFL a year early is likely, but I wouldn’t call it impossible.
Next: Jeadyn Lukus