2024 Preview: Taking a look at Clemson's running backs
As Clemson awaits the decisions of running backs Phil Mafah and Will Shipley, one thing is clear: the Tigers have plenty of talent and experience at the position.
Losing both Mafah and Shipley would be a tough pill to swallow. The pair accounted for 79 percent of Clemson's rushing yards in 2023 and 18 of the 24 rushing touchdowns. Getting at least one of them back would be a huge win, especially with Domonique Thomas' departure to Georgia State.
Keith Adams Jr.
With that said, Clemson has talent and depth at the position. Here's a look at who will fill out the depth chart:
Keith Adams Jr. - Rs-So: Adams appeared in 8 games for Clemson in 2023, rushing for 60 yards on just 11 carries. The son of two-time All-America Clemson linebacker Keith Adams, the younger Adams packs a punch at 5'9 215 pounds. He was an All-State running back in Utah before committing to Clemson.
Jarvis Green - Rs-Fr: Green appeared in just two games as a freshman this season, keeping his redshirt eligibility alive, but make no mistake, Dabo Swinney is excited about what he has in the South Carolina native. During his time at Dutchtown in Irmo, Green found the endzone 91 times. Green has a similar build to Adams at 5-9 200.
Jay Haynes - Rs-Fr: Another of Dabo Swinney's recruiting wins out of Alabama, Jay Haynes has a chance to be the featured back at Clemson. He scored two touchdowns on just 13 touches as a freshman this year, one on the ground and one through the air. That kind of flexibility - combined with elite speed - is going to be a weapon going forward.
David Eziomume - Fr: Clemson's lone running back signing in the 2024 class thus far, Ezomume has all the intangibles to be an every-down back. The Tigers bear out Arkansas, Auburn, and Florida State for his services. He played running back, tight end, and wide receiver during his time at North Cobb (GA). At 6'1, 200 pounds, he could very well be in line for touches as a freshman.
