Who are the top 25 most important players returning for the 2016 football season? The Clemson Insider begins its countdown as we look at the most important players currently on Clemson’s roster as the Tigers now begin the off-season and work towards spring practice which will begin in March.
Today, we look at numbers 21-25 on our list.
- Jake Fruhmorgen, sophomore, RT: The true freshman got the opportunity to play some in 2015 as a reserve tackle to Joe Gore on the right side of Clemson’s offensive line. The coaches say Fruhmorgen has the skills to be every bit as good as Mitch Hyatt on the left side, and that he has a high upside. They expect him to be an All-American by the time he leaves Clemson.
- Taylor Hearn, sophomore, LG: Hearn saw limited time on the offensive line this year, but offensive line coach Robbie Caldwell really likes him. Hearn will bring a mean streak on the offensive line that will be welcomed. The Williston, S.C. native is known for not backing down from any challenges.
- Mark Fields, sophomore, CB: Many expected Fields to compete with Cordrea Tankersley this past fall, but a hand injury in camp set him back a few months. He still played in 13 games, mostly on special teams, as he recorded five tackles. Fields was a consensus top 10 recruit coming out of high school and was a U.S. Army All-American Bowl selection from William Amos Hough High School in Cornelius, N.C.
- Jadar Johnson, senior, S: Johnson played in all 15 games this past year as he recorded 15 tackles, including one tackle behind the line of scrimmage. He had two interceptions for 16 yards and broke three passes and defended another. With Jefferie Gibson suddenly transferring for no real reason, plus the departures of Jayron Kearse and T.J. Green to the NFL, Johnson becomes extremely important to the secondary success. One of the more experienced players in the secondary, Johnson had 25 tackles and two interceptions in 2014 as well.
- Austin Bryant, sophomore, DE: Bryant is now the guy at defensive end with the departures of Shaq Lawson and Kevin Dodd to the NFL. The true freshman brings back the most experience after playing in 13 games in 2015. His best performance came in the Orange Bowl when he recorded four tackles and a sack. He finished the season with 23 tackles, 1.5 sacks and 2.0 tackles for loss. He also broke up one pass. Bryant was a top 150 player by ESPN coming out of high school, and the No. 11 rated defensive end in the country.
If you haven’t already order your copy today of Guts & Glory – Tales of Clemson’s Historic 2015 Football Season to help you celebrate and remember this special season.
