Dabo Swinney, infamous in some quarters for his disdain for recruiting out of the Transfer Portal, struck for the second time this week by signing former Purdue DE Will Heldt (6-6 265). Clemson announced the signing Thursday afternoon, a couple of days after Heldt made an official visit.
Heldt also visited LSU and Texas A&M during his transfer recruiting process. He was regarded as one of the top prospects in the Portal this month after two seasons with the Boilermakers.
His best season was this one in which he had 56 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, five sacks and a scoop and score.
Heldt joins wide receiver Tristan Smith as signed transfers by the Tigers who now have 17 newcomers for 2025.
Heldt is a native of Carmel, IN and he played two seasons at Purdue leaving him with three years to play two at Clemson under the current rules.