Clemson football 2017: Projected Tigers depth chart
Offense
Notable Losses: Quarterback Deshaun Watson and wide receiver Mike Williams highlight the losses for Clemson. However, they’re also left to re-tool much of the skill-position groups on offense. Receiver Artavis Scott and running back Wayne Gallman also entered and were selected in the NFL Draft. What’s more, reliable tight end Jordan Leggett graduate to the professional ranks. Thus, the Tigers have plenty of voids to fill.
QB: Kelly Bryant, junior
After spring practice, it appears pretty clear that junior Kelly Bryant is set to take the reins of the offense. He has the most experience of the quarterbacks of the roster and looked good in the offseason practices. Nipping at his heels, however, will be freshman Hunter Johnson, a highly touted and talented youngster. If Bryant struggles early in the season, Swinney may put in his shiny new toy to lead the way.
RB: C.J. Fuller, junior (RS)
Much like with Bryant, Fuller has the most knowledge and experience in the Tigers offense. Similar to his predecessor in Gallman, he’s not necessarily an electric runner. However, he stands out above Gallman as having better vision along with the same level of reliability. He’s a steady option that should balance out the offense.
WR: Deon Cain, junior
WR: Ray-Ray McLoud, junior
WR: Hunter Renfrow, junior (RS)
The wide receiver group is likely where Clemson will feel the least negative effects of their losses — that is if these guys can step up. While none of the group have the talent of Mike Williams, Deon Cain and Ray-Ray McCloud may be an overall better tandem than Williams and Scott. Renfrow returns as the title-game hero and a reliable option in the slot. The key, however, is Cain and McCloud stepping up and taking a bigger role in the attack.
TE: Milan Richard, junior (RS)
Milan Richard looked this spring to be in line to play very similarly to Leggett a season ago. He’s going to be a receiving threat from the tight end spot and seems primed to make an impact. The question, however, is if he’ll be asked to block much as he’s still a work-in-progress in that regard. That role early on could fall to Cannon Smith.
LT: Mitch Hyatt, junior
LG: Taylor Hearn, junior (RS)
C: Justin Falcinelli, junior (RS)
RG: Tyrone Crowder Jr, senior (RS)
RT: Sean Pollard, sophomore
There’s little drama on the offensive line as everyone but Justin Falcinelli was a starter a year ago. Falcinelli seems to have the edge in the middle of the line, but the Tigers have another solid option behind him, Gage Cervenka, should the redshirt junior struggle.
AP: Tavien Feaster, sophomore
Where Fuller might be the solid option at running back, sophomore Tavien Feaster is the explosive element to the offense. He’ll be seen in sub-packages all year as the all-purpose back, able to provide a spark and a bit of dynamic play when he’s on the field.