The Clemson defense has taken another big hit.

Starting safety Ricardo Jones is entering the transfer portal.

During his two seasons with the Tigers, Jones had 68 tackles (2.0 for loss), seven interceptions with one pick six, five pass breakups, a sack and a forced fumble in 862 defensive snaps over 25 games.

Jones’ breakout came during the 2025 season. he started 12 of the team’s 13 games, earning third-team All-ACC honors. His pick-six against the Gamecocks helped seal the Tigers’ win over the in-state rival. He had two interceptions in that win. He had a total if six interceptions, tying for the ACC lead.

Clemson has now lost two starting safeties from the 2025 defense, with Khalil Barnes also entering the portal. Reserve Rob Billings is another safety the Tigers will lose to transfer.

Jones will have two seasons of eligibility left. He is the 11th player Clemson has lost to the transfer portal.

Photo by Bart Boatwright