Clemson is heading into another season with one of the best linebacker units in the country.
Anchored by the exceptional All-American Barrett Carter, the Tigers’ linebacker corps is not only experienced but also features fresh talent with the addition of 5-star recruit Sammy Brown, one of the premier prospects from the 2024 class. This group is loaded with talent from top to bottom and has some serious potential to serve as the backbone of what promises to be a formidable Clemson defense. With a blend of seasoned leadership and dynamic new energy, this unit is poised to dominate and set the tone for the team throughout the season.
Athlon Sports recently released their linebacker unit rankings for the 2024 season, with Clemson’s landing at No. 3.
Jeremiah Trotter Jr. leaves big shoes to fill in the second level of Clemson’s standout defense, but coach Dabo Swinney’s group caught a break when Barrett Carter (an Athlon Sports first-team All-American for ’24) opted to return instead of bolting for the NFL Draft. Junior Wade Woodaz is expected to settle in at middle linebacker after working as a solid reserve the last two years. True freshman Sammy Brown is a name to watch at this position as well, with Kobe McCloud and Jamal Anderson also likely to factor into the mix for reps.
Clemson isn’t overly deep at the position, but their talent in the unit is ridiculous. There may be two first-round pick linebackers in this unit this season.
While the defensive line tends to get a lot of the hype, Clemson’s linebackers will once again be outstanding.