When Clemson’s 2025 season came to an end and the offseason began, Will Heldt had a decision to make.
The star defensive end, who transferred to Tigertown ahead of last season, says he didn’t contemplate transferring elsewhere for his final year of college eligibility in 2026.
Instead, Heldt’s decision came down to either moving on to the NFL, or returning to Clemson for his senior campaign.
On December 16, 2025, Heldt made his decision to stay at Clemson public on social media, and now he’s ready to run it back with the Tigers one more time this year.
“Honestly, for me, the decision was to declare [for the 2026 NFL Draft] or stay here. There was never any other considerations,” Heldt said on Feb. 25, when Clemson started 2026 spring practice.
“But just felt it was best for me and my family and my future to stay here, and happy to be with these guys and chase a championship.”
When making the aforementioned decision, Heldt relied heavily on his dad.
“Man, my dad’s my rock,” Heldt said. “[I relied on him] a lot. He’s the guy I call whenever I feel like I need a piece of advice on anything.”
Individually, Heldt had an outstanding first year as a Tiger in 2025, earning third-team All-ACC honors while tallying 48 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, four pass breakups and a forced fumble over 13 games (all starts). He led Clemson in both sacks and tackles for loss and finished fourth on the team (and first on the defensive line) in tackles.
From a team standpoint, Heldt’s first season with the Tigers was a disappointing one, as Clemson went 7-6 (4-4 ACC) and ended the year with a loss to Penn State in the Pinstripe Bowl after entering the year with ACC Championship and national title aspirations.
However, despite the way last season went, Heldt believes this year will be different and he remains confident the Tigers are still capable of winning a championship.
“Yeah, 100 percent,” he said. “Obviously, disappointing in my first season. But yeah, I came here to win a championship. I think it’s that simple. I have no doubt that we’re gonna make that happen, and that’s the goal this year. I’m excited to get back to work. I know we’re a long way from getting to that point, so just focused on what’s in front of us right now.”
Heldt came to Clemson last offseason following two productive seasons at Purdue. He played in all 24 games for the Boilermakers from 2023-24, totaling 68 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, five sacks and a fumble recovery over his two seasons.
The 6-foot-6, 260-pounder was one of only 12 players nationally to reach 10 tackles for loss and five sacks in each of the past two seasons.
