Clemson got plenty of contributions from some of its true freshmen this past season, but others were able to save a year of eligibility.
Of the Tigers’ 20 scholarship signees in their 2022 recruiting class, 12 played four games or fewer, which allowed them to redshirt, according to NCAA rules. The Clemson Insider is taking a closer look at what kind of impact each redshirt player made this season if any and what his role may look like in 2023.
First up is Keith Adams Jr.
Position: Running back
Height: 5-foot-9
Weight: 210
High school: Pine View (Utah)
The present: Adams, the son of former Clemson All-American Keith Adams, found himself in a backfield logjam stuck behind Will Shipley, Phil Mafah, Kobe Pace and Domonique Thomas, a former walk-on who was put on scholarship this season. Adams played just five offensive snaps in two games, finishing the season with three carries for 21 yards.
The future: Pace is no longer around after deciding to transfer to Virginia last month. But with Shipley and Mafah set to return at the top of the depth chart, the No. 3 spot is likely the highest Adams could climb next season. Thomas is still around and true freshmen Jarvis Green and Jamarius Haynes will also be joining the fold, so there will still be plenty of competition for carries. But Adams does have the advantage of being in the program for a full season.
Coachspeak: “He’s physical, he’s tough, and he’s a finisher. He scores a lot of touchdowns. He did that in Georgia, and he goes out to Utah and I think he led the state out there. So he’s got a mentality, and I love his spirit. He kind of plays running back like his dad played linebacker – just relentless and a high, high motor.” – Clemson coach Dabo Swinney on Adams
Dear Old Clemson has added the Tiger Sack Pack to our online store. Save by getting the Two Pack of signed cards from two of the nation’s top defensive ends, Myles Murphy and Xavier Thomas.
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