Clemson Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2017

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GLENDALE, AZ – DECEMBER 31: Clelin Ferrell #99 of the Clemson Tigers celebrates with teammate Carlos Watkins #94 during the first half of the 2016 PlayStation Fiesta Bowl against the Ohio State Buckeyes at University of Phoenix Stadium on December 31, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images) /

Defensive Line

Starting tackles: Dexter Lawrence, Christian Wilkins
Backups: Nyles Pinckney, Albert Huggins

Dexter Lawrence and Christian Wilkins are one of the most feared tackle duos in the ACC, if not the nation. Lawrence was a Freshman All-American, ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year and earned Defensive Rookie of the Year by Pro Football Focus. He also broke the freshman sack record in Clemson.

Wilkins will more than likely move back to his defensive tackle position this year to make room for the future at defensive end. But last year, Wilkins was a Nagurski Trophy finalist, Bednarik Award semifinalist and was a first-team All-American by AFCA.

Their backup Albert Huggins had a great 2016 season as a backup with 20 tackles and three sacks. While Nyles Pinckney redshirted last year and should be a great asset to Brent Venables’ terrifying defense.

Starting ends: Austin Bryant, Clelin Ferrell
Backups: Richard Yeargin, Chris Register

Clelin Ferrell came on the scene as a force at the end of the season with great games against Ohio State and Alabama. He shared Clemson’s defensive rookie of the year award with Dexter Lawrence. And in 2017, expect more of what you saw late in 2016. In the last two years, Bryant has been behind some great pass rushers including Kevin Dodd and Shaq Lawson. But in 2016 he shared Clemson’s defensive 12th Man of the Year award.

Backups Richard Yeargin and Chris Register will see a good bit of playing time due to Clemson two-deep rotation at the defensive end position.

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