Clemson is expecting Amare Adams to assert himself along its defensive line during the upcoming season.

The former five-star recruit logged just over 100 snaps during his debut season in 2025, recording 10 tackles. However, an ankle injury suffered in practice robbed him of the final three games of the season and limited him early on in spring practice.

Since then, there’s been something different about Adams, and defensive tackles coach Nick Eason has taken notice.

“He looks great,” Eason said. “He’s been working really hard. He’s healthy and has been leading with his actions. How he shows up in the weight room, how he’s been showing up academically, how he’s been showing up for meetings and being really attentive.”

With Peter Woods and DeMonte Capehart both in the NFL and Stephiylan Green transferring out, the Tigers are going to need to lean on some of the younger players in Eason’s room, and the focus certainly shifts towards a player like Adams.

Now that the 6-foot-4, 305-pounder has had a season to acclimate to the college game, a jump in production is expected in year two.

“He’s got all the tangibles. Height, size, all the things you want,” Eason said. “He got hurt last year and was still learning the defense. But I’m really, really proud of him. He has made a huge jump this offseason.”

Before arriving at Clemson, Adams was a monster at the high school level, helping lead South Florence to the 4A state title game in 2024. He finished that senior season second on the team with 76 tackles. His five sacks led the Bruins, and his 13 tackles for loss were tied for tops on the team.

The next step for Adams is becoming more consistent. Now that he’s got a season of experience under his belt, the expectation is for the former five-star to start to blossom.

“He’s been consistent,” Eason said. “We’ve got to continue to challenge him to be consistent as he gets ready for training camp and as the season goes on.”