Clemson Needs Key Rookies to Step Up for Success

New Faces to Play Pivotal Role for Tigers

Clemson's hopes for a successful season rest heavily on the shoulders of its incoming freshman class. With several key positions up for grabs, the rookies will need to make an immediate impact if the Tigers want to contend for a championship.

Quarterback

D.J. Uiagalelei takes over as the starting quarterback after Trevor Lawrence departed for the NFL. The true freshman is a highly-touted recruit with a strong arm and good mobility. However, he will need to learn quickly in order to lead the Tigers' complex offense.

Wide Receiver

Clemson lost its top three wide receivers from last season, so the freshmen will have plenty of opportunities to earn playing time. Joseph Ngata and Ajou Ajou are two of the most promising newcomers, and they will need to step up and provide Uiagalelei with reliable targets.

Offensive Line

The offensive line is another area where Clemson needs some new faces to step up. The Tigers lost three starters from last season, and the freshmen will need to fill those holes in order to protect Uiagalelei and open up holes for the running game.

Defensive Line

Clemson's defensive line is one of the best in the country, but it will need some new contributors to emerge this season. Bryan Bresee and Myles Murphy are two of the top recruits in the country, and they will be expected to make an immediate impact.

Linebacker

The Tigers lost three starting linebackers from last season, so the freshmen will have a chance to earn playing time right away. Trenton Simpson is a five-star recruit who is expected to make an immediate impact, and he will be joined by fellow freshmen Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Tyler Davis.

Secondary

Clemson's secondary is one of the most experienced units on the team, but the freshmen will still have a chance to contribute. Andrew Booth Jr. and Derion Kendrick are two of the top cornerbacks in the country, and they will be joined by fellow freshmen Fred Davis II and Malcolm Greene.

Conclusion

Clemson's success in 2021 will depend heavily on the performance of its key rookies. The freshmen will need to step up and make an immediate impact in order for the Tigers to contend for a championship.