When it comes to the Clemson draft, on paper, the three players taken in 2025 had outstanding collegiate careers. Linebacker Barrett Carter went in the fourth round to the Bengals, safety R.J. Mickens landed with the Chargers in the sixth round, and running back Phil Mafah squeaked in at the end with the Cowboys in the seventh. That’s a pretty thin group compared to some years past. Just last year, the Tigers saw six players drafted, including first-rounder Nate Wiggins.
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The uncertainty around this Clemson draft class is not just about the draft spots. Carter, has great speed and coverage skills, but scouts have flagged his lack of size and strength as a concern, especially when it comes to holding up against NFL-level run games. Carter is unquestionably versatile, but there are questions about whether he can be a consistent three-down player in the league.
Falling to the sixth round means teams see Mickens more as a depth piece or special teams contributor than an instant impact player. Mafah, for all his toughness and productivity (1,115 yards in 2024), dropped to the seventh round. That’s usually where teams take flyers on developmental players or fill out their training camp rosters. Tight end Jake Briningstool (Chiefs) and defensive tackle Payton Page (Jets) have been signed as undrafted free agents. Offensive lineman Marcus Tate remains unsigned, but could receive an opportunity prior to camp.
Is there a breakout star among the group this year? Wide receiver Hunter Renfrow was a fifth-round selection in 2019 that has gone on to success with the Las Vegas Raiders. Defensive tackle Grady Jarrett fell to the fifth round in 2015, but has gone to become a star with the Atlanta Falcons, making two Pro Bowls. Jarrett’s Falcons teammate, Ray-Ray McCloud, caught 62 passes last year and has carved out a lengthy NFL career despite dropping to the sixth round back in 2018. Perhaps, one or more members of this class will follow a similar path and find NFL success.