There is no doubt Clemson has some big shoes to fill at defensive end. Two of the best defensive ends the program has had at one time has graduated and moved on to the NFL.
Justin Foster will anchor the spot left open by Clelin Ferrell’s departure, while sophomore Xavier Thomas will start at the defensive end position left open by Austin Bryant.
Though he was not a starter last year, Thomas did find his way on to the football field quite often as a true freshman. When he was in there, he always seemed to make plays, like the sack on Syracuse quarterback Eric Dungey that pretty much sealed the Tigers’ victory.