ESPN ranks Clemson high in Defensive Future Power Rankings

Clemson has an excellent mixture of youth and experience on their defense. That should be a strength for the Tigers in 2023.

A lot of attention has been paid to Clemson's offense this offseason. New offensive coordinator Garrett Riley is now in town and looking to flip the script for what's been a clunky unit for the Tigers. With that said, Clemson's calling card under head coach Dabo Swinney has been defense and ESPN is high on that side of the ball.

The worldwide leader recently published their College Football Future Power Ranking for defenses, headed up by senior writer Adam Rittenberg. At No. 2 on the list is the Clemson Tigers.

Wes Goodwin is entering his second full season as Clemson's defensive coordinator. (Clemson Athletics)

Looking at the current roster, it's easy to understand why. The Tigers boast arguably the best duo of linebackers in the country in Jeremiah Trotter and Barrett Carter. The secondary is stacked with players like Andrew Mukuba and Nate Wiggins, and the defensive line has an excellent combination of elite play from veterans and underclassmen.

While the linebackers and defensive backs are talented and deep, the defensive line is where the unit draws its strength from. Tyler Davis, Ruke Orhorhoro, and Xavier Thomas all elected to return for another season. Add to that what Clemson brought in this offseason in Peter Woods, Tomarrion Parker, Vic Burley, and Stephiylan Green and you have the foundation for a great defense for years to come. The Tigers are continuing that trend with the 2024 class. Recently, Clemson landed a commitment from 4-star defensive lineman Hevin Brown-Shuler.

So while most will be paying attention to the development of Cade Klubnik and the Clemson offense, fans should be extremely confident in what's happening on the defensive side of the ball for the Tigers.