For the second straight year some are saying Clemson’s defense will take a step back because of the losses to the NFL and other attrition. In this series we will look at the players that have departed and how they will be replaced this season.

In this edition of The Replacements we look at how Clemson will replace T.J. Green at strong safety.

T.J. Green had an impressive NFL combine and surprised many by being drafted in the second round by the Indianapolis Colts.

Jadar Johnson will get the first shot to replace T.J. Green.  Johnson was the starter coming out of spring and brings some experience to the position.  The staff had plenty of praise for Jadar during the spring.

Dabo Swinney even said at one point that Jadar would be this year’s Kevin Dodd for the Tigers.  Kevin took advantage of his chance to start and his impressive season shocked many and helped him move way up the draft boards.  Jadar now gets the shot he has been waiting for.  Coach Swinney has been right many times with his player predictions.  We will see if this one is on the money as well.

Tanner Muse will provide some quality depth behind Johnson.  Muse is an incredible athlete that is very physical with great speed.  Muse had a great spring and showed that he is ready to make a significant contribution this year.  There was some discussion of whether Muse would move to SAM/hybrid but he is still at safety.

Isaiah Simmons is ready to play this season as well and will push for time at safety.  Simmons is built to bring pain to the opponents and will be a great player before he leaves Clemson.  He will definitely play this season and will push Johnson and Muse for playing time.  We also could see him push for playing time at free safety.

The depth chart is now loaded at safety.  There isn’t a lot of experience but there is plenty of talent.  Several guys that will play on Sundays are on the current depth chart.  As they gain experience Clemson will have another group of outstanding safeties.