As well as Clemson has recruited in recent years, it has also signed its share of prospects that needed time to develop before turning into stars.
Some guys have arrived “no assembly required, ready to go,” as Dabo Swinney described it on Tuesday.
But for every Sammy Watkins or Deshaun Watson that flourishes as a freshman, there is a Kevin Dodd or Vic Beasley that needs time to turn into a key contributor.
The latest player to join the second group is senior linebacker Dorian O’Daniel. The former high school running back has improved his play each season since redshirting in 2013.