Over the next few weeks, we will take a look at each position on the football team to examine where each player stands right now in his group on the depth chart. We will look back on the 2015 season for analysis and attempt to forecast what the 2016 depth chart might look like in a few months, including early thoughts on the mid-year enrollees. Today, we continue with a look at the slot, or “5”, receiver position…
- Hunter Renfrow, RS So.
Contrary to popular opinion, Renfrow really wasn’t a major revelation during the course of the season. He would catch a pass or two in a game occasionally, but he never really emerged as an every-down threat until postseason play—an astonishing footnote in an incredible story of a preferred walk-on who earned both a scholarship and an increasing role on a championship team.
Renfrow’s appeals are numerous. He can catch the ball, whether standing still or on the move or in traffic. He can maneuver through tight windows and slink between defenders for extra yardage. He is faster and quicker than you think. His route running ability is advanced for his age, even among true scholarship players. Perhaps most importantly, he has established a rapport with Deshaun Watson, having caught 14 passes—three of which went for touchdowns—over the final three games of the 2015 season.
Renfrow can still get stronger. He has already transformed his body in obvious ways, but according to Clemson’s official roster page, he only weighs 175 pounds. Another offseason working on the nuance of the craft will be good for him, too, since he spent some time doing some punting in camp a year ago. Now he has proven his bona fides as a receiver, so such dabbling probably won’t take him away from the receiver group.
- Trevion Thompson, RS So.
It should be noted that I think Ray-Ray McCloud would be slotted here, behind Renfrow and ahead of Thompson, should he be moved to the slot permanently. That is far from a certainty, but it is plausible, and it might be more likely than not to occur. You can read my rundown on McCloud here.
Thompson earned much praise as a scout team player in 2014, but he never really carved out a consistent role for himself as a redshirt freshman. He played in every game but one, but he only caught a pass in seven of the team’s 14 contests.
This will be a big offseason for Thompson, especially if the aforementioned depth chart adjustments occur. He will need to enhance his route running ability and improve his hands if he wants to become a more prominently featured contributor in Clemson’s receiving corps in 2016.
God Bless!
WQ
If you haven’t already order your copy today of Guts & Glory – Tales of Clemson’s Historic 2015 Football Season to help you celebrate and remember this special season.
