Clemson Tigers' Top 10 Returnees for 2025: Cade Klubnik & T.J. Moore Lead the Pack

The Clemson Tigers recently completed yet another successful 10-win campaign, securing an ACC championship along with a berth in the College Football Playoff. As they look ahead to the 2025 season, head coach Dabo Swinney can count on a wealth of returning talent.

10. DeMonte Capehart (DL)

In his final year eligible as part of the Tigers, Capehart aims for an impressive campaign. Last season, demonstrating significant potential with 21 tackles across only 11 games from his position at the edge, highlighted him as a crucial component of the defensive line rotations.

9. Peter Woods (DT)

In 2024, Woods emerged as a dominant presence along the heart of the defensive line. He tallied 28 overall tackles, with 18 being solo stops, added nine tackles resulting in losses, and secured three sacks. For the Tigers to remain competitive within the ACC, Woods' significant influence will be crucial.

8. Walker Parks (G)

A significant factor behind quarterback Cade Klubnik’s impressive performance both from under center and in the shotgun formation last season can be attributed to the effective blocking provided by Walker Parks. Standing at 6'5" and weighing 305 pounds, this seasoned senior lineman brings extensive experience to the field and is expected to play an essential role in the team's offensive strategy going ahead.

7. Sammy Brown (LB)

Sammy Brown stands out as one of the most dynamic defenders in the conference. Having been named the 2024 ACC Rookie of the Year, he amassed 80 total tackles, 12 for losses, five sacks, and three pass breakups during his rookie season. His comeback played an essential role.

6. T.J. Moore (WR)

Clemson's leading receiver from this year is returning for an additional campaign following his impressive debut in 2024. Moore accumulated 45 catches for 651 yards and scored five touchdowns during his first year. He aims to build upon these achievements in the upcoming 2025 season.

5. Avieon Terrell (CB)

The player who excelled last year will continue to cover both the slot and boundary positions for Swinney and his team in 2025. Last season, Terrell recorded 58 total tackles, including five tackles for loss, two interceptions, 12 pass breakups, and three forced fumbles. His versatility makes him an exceptional asset on the field.

4. Khalil Barnes (S)

After having a standout year in 2024 with 61 total tackles, four interceptions, and three pass breakups, Barnes will take over the backend responsibilities. He is an essential component of this squad.

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3. Tristan Leigh (LT)

As a seasoned senior, Leigh will lead the charge from the left position on the offensive line. Throughout his collegiate tenure, he has accumulated starts in 23 out of a possible 32 games. His wealth of experience surely stands out.

2. Bryant Wesco Jr. (Wide Receiver)

The Freshman All-American could potentially be the top returning talent playing for Clemson in 2025. Even though his reception count was lower compared to Moore’s, he managed to accumulate more than 700 yards. With an impressive receiving average of 17.3 yards per catch, this indicates that he poses a significant scoring threat every time he gets hold of the ball.

1. Cade Klubnik (QB)

Klubnik embodies the spirit and drive of this team. As he enters his third year as the permanent starting quarterback, he aims to achieve another impressive performance with over 3,500 passing yards and 35 touchdown passes. Should he manage these numbers, the Tigers would likely find themselves well-positioned for consideration in the College Football Playoff race.

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