Clemson signs first defensive player from transfer portal in historic move

Clemson University has made a significant move in college football by signing Purdue edge-rusher Will Heldt through the transfer portal. This marks the first time Clemson has added a scholarship defensive player from the portal since it began in 2018. In addition to Heldt, Clemson also signed Southeast Missouri wide receiver Tristan Smith, making this the first instance of the Tigers acquiring multiple players from the portal in one cycle. Previously, Clemson focused on backup quarterbacks in 2022 and 2023. Head coach Dabo Swinney has shifted his stance on the transfer portal, acknowledging the need for change after previously resisting it. This change reflects a broader trend in college football as teams adapt to new recruiting strategies.