Defensive talent returning
Wesco and Moore were not the only Tiger freshmen to show out in 2024. Linebacker Sammy Brown had such an impressive first year, he won the ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year award. Brown earned the award after recording 87 total tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks. He will have a huge role in improving the defense after a disappointing season from the unit a year ago.
Next to Brown at the other linebacker is the veteran leader of the defense Wade Woodaz. The senior linebacker was Clemson’s leading tackler last season with 89 total. He did this starting next to second round NFL draft pick Barrett Carter. Woodaz is an underrated talent on the Tigers' defense. His leadership will determine how good this Tigers defense becomes this season.
One level in front of these talented linebackers is the defensive line that PFF named the best in FBS. On the interior is Peter Woods, a former five-star recruit. The 2023 Freshman All-American played both inside and on the edge in 2024. In that time, he racked up 32 total tackles and 8.5 tackles for loss even after missing four games. Going back to being solely in the interior will benefit both Woods and the Tigers in 2025.
Top 5 Defensive Lines in College Football💪 pic.twitter.com/LDvgswnPgk
— PFF College (@PFF_College) June 3, 2025
TJ Parker has also been an important piece to the Clemson defense since walking onto campus in 2023. Last season Parker put together a Second-Team All-ACC campaign with 64 total tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, and six forced fumbles. Now, with some additional help on the opposite edge, Parker has a chance to show he is the best defensive end in the country.