Clemson defensive back declares for the 2025 NFL Draft

Mickens time at Clemson is done.

R.J. Mickens has officially bid farewell to Clemson after playing his final game as a Tiger last weekend in Austin. On Wednesday, the fifth-year senior announced his decision to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft through a heartfelt letter to the Clemson community.

Mickens expressed his gratitude, first thanking God for guiding him through his journey. He also shared appreciation for his family, who he said made Clemson feel like home, and for his coaches and teammates, who helped shape his experience on and off the field. Being voted a team captain by his peers, Mickens said, was a dream come true.

He also gave a special shoutout to Clemson fans, calling Death Valley “the most special place in college football” and thanking them for their passion and energy.

Mickens wraps up his Clemson career with an impressive record, appearing in 60 games with 30 starts. He recorded 196 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, seven interceptions, and 19 passes defended during his time with the Tigers.