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 boundary, or “9”, receiver position…
- Mike Williams, RS Jr.
Williams was poised to break out and make a name for himself in 2015 before a quick and gruesome neck injury derailed the campaign almost before it started. His injury created a gigantic void that even a deep receiving corps like Clemson’s struggled to fill all season long.
There was talk during the season that Williams might actually progress well enough in his rehab to get some snaps on the field during the postseason, but that never materialized—and that might have been the best thing for Clemson over the long haul. Now, instead of burning what otherwise was a redshirt year, the Tigers get another year of Williams lining up in the boundary, and the NFL prospect gets a chance to enhance his stock.
Other than rehab, there isn’t much for Williams to work on during the offseason. His ball skills are the strength of his game, as well as his hoops-bred leaping ability that gives him a distinct advantage over opposing cornerbacks. Williams could be the best wideout in the ACC in 2016.
- Deon Cain, So.
It took a little while, but Cain ultimately became the fill-in vertical threat in the Clemson offense. The freshman spent much of the first half of the season learning how to properly translate the playbook to the playing surface, and when the light came on, the former high school quarterback became a prime target for Deshaun Watson.
His emergence made a suspension for both games in the College Football Playoff more problematic. Just as Cain was beginning to find a groove, he was absent as Clemson made its unprecedented run to the national title game. The Tigers certainly missed his ability to fight for the ball and win matchups athletically at the very end of the season.
Trying to fight back from that lapse in judgment will be Cain’s most vital task during this offseason. He may have cost himself some goodwill in the locker room and with his coaches, but the natural talent he possesses and the diligence he displayed in getting onto the field this season should keep him in the mix regardless.
- Shadell Bell, RS Fr.
In comments made to TCI here, Bell says he expects to see more time in the slot this spring. That may be true, and if no attrition happens, that may occur. However, if McCloud moves inside—which I have a hunch is an option, at least—there will be a logjam there. That means Bell’s home may actually end up being the boundary.
Either way, Bell’s frame suggests he could become a weapon all over the field for Watson and the Tigers in 2016. He has bulked up his 6’2” frame and impressed in his time on the scout team. The Georgia native will benefit from being the only player in his position group—at least among freshmen—to redshirt last season.
Bell’s foot speed and quickness are areas where he must improve during the spring. Across-the-board improvements in the more technical aspects of playing wideout should follow suit if he applies himself as diligently as he did a season ago. Bell will find the depth chart crowded, but there is certainly a chance for him to carve out a niche—especially if Cain fails to get his act together.
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.
