Does the Clemson Tigers’ LB Room Deserve a High Position Group Ranking?

The Clemson Tigers’ linebacker room is considered one of the team’s strengths, but could it also be one of the best in the country?

As Pro Football Focus’ Max Chadwick researched the best linebacker rooms in the country, they found that Clemson was once again the best.

“For the second year in a row, Clemson has the best linebacking unit in the country. That starts with Barrett Carter, my No. 2 returning linebacker in college football,” Chadwick said. “Wade Woodaz is another returning starter who was third among ACC linebackers with a 49.7 passer rating allowed in 2023. Kobe McCloud is expected to take the starting spot vacated by Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and earned a 75.4 PFF grade over 90 snaps last season.”

Carter is the best returning linebacker in the country, so it makes sense that they would be considered the group.

In three years, including two as a starter, he accumulated 151 tackles, including 21 for loss, and nine sacks in total. In coverage, he had three interceptions and 14 pass breakups.

He’s expected to be one of the top linebackers in the upcoming draft, most people thought he’d go last year. Having a player of his caliber lead your group through an unexpected season is a gift.

After Carter, here’s Woodaz. In his first year as a major contributor, he had 28 tackles, four sacks and two interceptions. He returned one of those interceptions for a touchdown. The versatile weapon even blocked a punt in coverage.

He is a great athlete who has been used as both a linebacker And defensive back. The junior will be one of the most fun players to watch in the country.

McCloud enters his sophomore season as a redshirt freshman and has never really had a chance to make a major impact, being primarily a depth player. He has 17 career tackles, including 3.5 for loss.

If the name sounds familiar, it’s because his brother is Tigers legend Ray-Ray McCloud.

The latest addition to the room is highly anticipated five-star freshman Sammy Brown. He was the No. 14 player in the country and the No. 2 linebacker in the 2023 recruiting class according to 247Sports.

His recruiting profile compares to Myles Jack’s, meaning he should be an elite athlete from day one. He probably won’t have a big role as a rookie, but the future is bright.

Clemson has a nice combination of youth and experience. This group can easily live up to expectations, which would be a good sign for the Tigers.