One of the first major programs to host its prospect pro day is the Clemson Tigers. When the doors open at Clemson’s training facility on Wednesday, all 32 NFL teams are expected to be in attendance.
There will be several future NFL players working out in front of the various scouts, coaches and even a few GMs. Here’s a quick look at some of the bigger draws from the Tigers.
Isaiah Simmons, LB – A freak athlete who dominated the media coverage at the scouting combine, Simmons played all over the Clemson defense. Safety, slot corner, linebacker, EDGE — Simmons did it all and did it all impressively. He’s a likely top-10 overall pick and could be in play for the Lions if they trade back from No. 3.
A.J. Terrell, CB – A 6-1 press-man corner with lots of starting experience, Terrell is very much in play for the Lions’ second-round pick. Terrell’s game film is a little inconsistent but he’s got immediate NFL starting potential in a defensive scheme familiar to what Detroit runs under coach Matt Patricia.
Tanner Muse, LB/S – Like Simmons, Muse played both safety and linebacker. His NFL future is in the box as an inside LB who can carry TEs in coverage to the safety, and also on special teams. He tested better than expected athletically at the combine.
K’Von Wallace, safety – Wallace rocked the combine with an outstanding workout that hints at his potential as a downhill safety in the role Tavon Wilson played for the Lions in 2019. He’s a heat-seeking missile to the ball, for better and for worse.
Tee Higgins, WR – Proven 6-foot-4 playmaker with soft hands and the ability to play X, Y or Z in an offense, though he’ll need to work on his route running and release off the line. Projections for Higgins are all over the map, so his workout numbers do matter more than most others.
Tremayne Anchrum, OL – Anchrum played right tackle for the Tigers but will need to move inside to guard in the NFL. He’s powerful and has good feet but lacks both height and arm length to stay outside. Anchrum could be a nice Day 3 selection for Detroit if he can handle the transition inside.
John Simpson, OL – A physical, well-seasoned guard who specializes in moving people with his upper-body strength, Simpson’s game bears some resemblance to former Lions starter Manny Ramirez. Simpson has a higher ceiling but needs to cut back on the penalties and consistently being the last player moving after the snap. He’s a Day 3 prospect.
Diondre Overton, WR – He got overlooked in Clemson’s deep receiving corps, but at 6-4 and with his leaping and catching ability, Overton will get a shot in the NFL. He moved into the slot in 2019 and looked good enough to merit a late-round pick.
Gage Cervenka, OG – Former defensive tackle who plays guard like he’s still on defense, the proverbial bull in a china shop. If you liked Beau Benzschawel last year, you’ll like Cervenka too.