Clemson Tigers football has been a dominant force in the college football landscape for over a decade. With a rich history of ACC titles and College Football Playoff appearances, expectations remain sky-high for the 2024 season. Under the leadership of head coach Dabo Swinney, the Tigers have cultivated a winning culture and a roster brimming with talent. As Clemson enters the 2024 season, fans and analysts are eager to see how the roster shapes up and who will emerge as key contributors. From the quarterback battle to the dominant defense, here’s everything you need to know about clemson football roster 2024 roster.
The Key Position
The most scrutinized position on any football team is undoubtedly the quarterback, and for Clemson, the 2024 season will be no different. Sophomore Cade Klubnik is expected to be the leader under center after taking over the starting role in 2023. A former five-star recruit, Klubnik showed flashes of brilliance in his first year but will need to build on his performance to take Clemson back to the top of college football.
Klubnik’s dual-threat abilities make him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His strong arm and ability to make plays with his legs provide the Tigers with an explosive option at quarterback. The success of the 2024 offense hinges largely on Klubnik’s development, as he will be tasked with running an offense that features an array of talented skill players.
Backing up Klubnik will be a battle-tested DJ Uiagalelei, who transferred to Oregon State but left a significant legacy at Clemson. His departure opened the door for Klubnik to claim the starting spot, but the experience behind him adds valuable depth to the position.
A Dynamic Duo
Clemson’s success in the trenches and the running game has always been a cornerstone of its offensive identity. In 2024, the Tigers will once again rely on a powerful backfield, led by two of the most talented running backs in the ACC—Will Shipley and Phil Mafah.
Will Shipley has been a reliable workhorse for Clemson since his freshman year. The junior running back is an explosive, well-rounded player with the ability to break tackles and accelerate in the open field. His vision, balance, and speed make him a serious threat, both between the tackles and as a pass catcher out of the backfield. With another year of development, Shipley is poised for a breakout season as one of the premier backs in the nation.
Phil Mafah, a physical bruiser, complements Shipley’s skill set perfectly. The senior running back thrives in short-yardage situations and provides the necessary power to grind down defenses. Mafah’s versatility will also allow him to be a threat in the passing game, offering Clemson additional options to keep defenses off-balance.
Together, Shipley and Mafah will form a formidable tandem capable of carrying the offensive load and setting the tone for Clemson’s high-powered attack.
Talent on the Outsides
Clemson’s wide receiver corps is one of the most exciting units on the 2024 roster, with several players poised to step up and make major contributions. Antonio Williams, a dynamic sophomore, is expected to be the top target for Klubnik in the passing game. Williams has proven to be a playmaker since his freshman season, showing the ability to make contested catches and break free for big plays.
Alongside Williams, Beaux Collins will look to make a major impact. The junior wideout possesses excellent size and hands, making him a consistent weapon on the outside. His ability to create separation and convert third downs will be crucial for Clemson’s offensive success. Other notable receivers on the roster, such as Adam Randall and Troy Stellato, will also contribute to a deep and talented receiving unit.
The wide receiver group in 2024 offers plenty of versatility and talent, giving Klubnik multiple weapons to choose from in the passing game. With speed, size, and playmaking ability, Clemson’s receiving corps will keep defenses on their toes throughout the season.
Protecting the Quarterback
No offense can succeed without a solid offensive line, and in 2024, the Clemson Tigers will need their big men up front to perform at a high level. The line will be anchored by veteran leaders like Walker Parks and Tristan Leigh, both of whom have been stalwarts for the Tigers over the past few seasons.
Clemson has struggled with consistency on the offensive line in recent years, but the 2024 season brings a renewed sense of hope. With a deep rotation of players, including freshmen and sophomores pushing for playing time, the offensive line is more talented and experienced than it has been in previous seasons. Protecting Klubnik and opening up running lanes for Shipley and Mafah will be essential to the success of the offense.
A Powerhouse Unit
Clemson’s defense has always been one of the best in college football, and 2024 is no exception. The Tigers will once again boast a defensive line loaded with talent, highlighted by senior Tyler Davis and explosive edge rusher Xavier Thomas. Both players are among the best in the country at their respective positions, with Davis providing power and consistency on the interior and Thomas offering speed and finesse on the edge.
The linebacking corps will be led by Barrett Carter and Jeremiah Trotter Jr., both of whom are elite defenders. Carter’s ability to cover ground sideline-to-sideline and Trotter’s leadership and physicality will make them two of the top linebackers in the ACC. Both will play pivotal roles in shutting down opposing running backs and providing pressure on the quarterback.
In the secondary, cornerbacks Nate Wiggins and Jeadyn Lukus will look to lock down opposing receivers. Wiggins has the size and athleticism to be a shutdown corner, while Lukus is known for his ball skills and ability to make game-changing plays. The secondary will be vital in Clemson’s pursuit of stopping the pass and forcing turnovers.
Consistency in Kicking
Special teams play a key role in any successful football team, and for Clemson, it starts with reliable kicker B.T. Potter. Potter has been one of the most dependable kickers in recent years and will once again be tasked with handling both field goals and kickoffs. His ability to hit clutch field goals and keep opponents on their toes in the kicking game will be crucial.
Conclusion
Clemson’s 2024 football roster is one filled with a mixture of veteran leadership and youthful talent, all coming together to create a squad that is capable of competing for both the ACC title and a spot in the College Football Playoff. With Cade Klubnik at the helm, a dynamic backfield, a talented receiving corps, and an elite defense, the Tigers are poised for another successful season. However, much of their success will hinge on consistency and improvement across all positions. If they can maintain balance on offense and continue to dominate defensively, Clemson will once again be a formidable force in college football. The 2024 season promises to be another exciting chapter in the history of Clemson Tigers football.
