Vanderbilt defensive end Nate Clifton is entering the transfer portal, he announced on Instagram earlier this week. USC immediately pounced by offering the pass rusher.
“I would like to thank God and Vanderbilt University for blessing me with the opportunity to do what I love over the past 5 years,” Clifton said in a statement. “I want to thank Coach Derek Mason for giving me the chance to play in my hometown in front of friends and family. Next, I would like to thank Coach Clark Lea for helping me grow as a player as well as taking part in shaping the man I am today. Lastly, I want to thank my teammates, my loved ones and all of the Vandy fans for the constant love and support over the years.”
Clifton had the best season of his career for Vandy this year, in which he totaled 5.5 sacks, 30 tackles, and an interception.
Clifton appeared in 43 games over five seasons at Vanderbilt with 37 starts. In 2023 he led the team with 5.5 sacks, also putting up 7.5 tackles for loss.
“Most important to me and the reason why I entered the portal is because I want to go to the NFL,” “I had a good year (this season), but I wasn’t on a platform to be seen by NFL scouts, so being on a contending, championship team is very important and I want a place and coach that have put guys into the NFL.” Clifton told 247Sports.
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