ACC Football: Newcomers who’ll have the biggest impact in 2022

2. North Carolina Tar Heels: Travis Shaw, Defensive line

The North  Carolina Tar Heels signed two five-star prospects this cycle. In programs like North Carolina, which don’t sign many five stars, there is no need to look at depth charts; these players will see snaps.

Freshman defensive lineman Travis Shaw might start this fall. Shaw is a mountain of a young man, standing 6-foot-5 and 310 pounds. That size has not stopped Shaw from developing into an elite athlete. Shaw can play anywhere on the line because he is such a freakish athlete. Put Shaw on your freshman All-American lists now.

1. Clemson Tigers: Cade Klubnik, Quarterback

The spring and summer will be extraordinarily interesting for the Clemson Tigers. Incumbent quarterback D.J. Uiagelelei will attempt to hold off incoming freshman quarterback Cade Klubnik. “DJU” did not have a very good season in 2021, which opened the quarterback competition.

Klubnik was productive at legendary Westlake High School, which produced the likes of Drew Brees and Nick Foles. The Texas native has all the tools and joins a ready-made championship-caliber roster. If Uiagelelei wants to keep the job, he has to show improved decision-making and accuracy. If not, Klubnik is ready to take over.