CLEMSON – The Clemson linebacker room is a group that’s been a key strength for some time now. It all starts with the pair of Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Barrett Carter. They’re first and second on the Tigers in tackles with 67 in total.

Both are considered true NFL talents and could be first-round picks with a strong finish to the season and it feels like that’s the route for both. For the sake of this scenario, I’ll say they’re both headed to the next level and Clemson should prepare accordingly.

Wade Woodaz is a key piece for the Tigers as he’s gained reps in his second season, and that experience will be evermore important if his two partners in crime are on the move.

Who’s probably gone

Jeremiah Trotter Jr. (junior)

Barrett Carter (junior)

Who could return

Wade Woodaz (sophomore)

Kobe McCloud (redshirt freshman)

Dee Crayton (freshman)

Jamal Anderson (freshman)

2024 recruiting class

Five-star Sammy Brown (commit)

Three-star Drew Woodaz (commit)

Four-star Bradley Shaw (offered)

2025 recruiting class

Four-star Eric Winters (offered)

Four-star Brett Clatterbaugh (offered)

Three-star Kamar Archie (offered)

Jaedon Harmon (offered)

Taking a look at the next two classes, it’s very clear that Clemson is making an effort to load up at linebacker with the potential losses. Everything starts with 2024’s No. 1 linebacker, Sammy Brown. Beside him in the class is the Woodaz younger brother, Drew, to boost the class.

Bradley Shaw visited the Tigers for the Florida State game, and a late push from Dabo Swinney to land him would be a big addition alongside Brown and Woodaz. With multiple offers to the position in 2025, Clemson is laying the groundwork for the future as a changing of the guard is on the horizon.

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