When you think of redshirt freshmen, you usually assume they’re projects or guys destined to be backups. The days of difference-making players simply sitting on the bench because they’re freshmen are long gone.
There are exceptions to this generalization. With the new rules allowing a minimum amount of playing time without burning the redshirt, players who are injured or otherwise impaired by circumstances beyond their control can redshirt and thus remain eligible for one season.
Clemson football has a handful of players who fit that category and have the potential to make an impact this season. Here are five (or maybe more) examples of redshirt freshmen who could make a difference on the field for the Tigers this season.
Position: Defensive Tackle
Hometown: Warner Robins, Georgia
High School: Warner Robins High School
247Sports Overall Rating: 5 Stars
Height: 1.93 m
Weight: 315 pounds
Reason for redshirt: injury
Burley was the only member of the class of 2023 to receive a 5-star rating in the composite. He joined a group of very talented defensive tackles that included two players (Tyler Davis and Ruke Orhorhoro) expected to be drafted by the NFL in 2024.
So it was no surprise that Burley was left out of the starting lineup. He was expected to play quite a bit. A redshirt wasn’t something many people expected… until he got injured.
Burley missed most of 2023 and was redshirted. He still has players coming up for 2024. Demonte Capehart and Payton Page will likely be starters. If Tre Williams gets healthy, he will also be in the mix.
With Peter Woods potentially playing defensive end rather than tackle, Burley could compete for the two-deep position. Stephiylan Green is another redshirt freshman who could also transfer this season.
NEXT: Misun Kelley
