Projecting Clemson starters on loaded defensive line

Even with spring football over, there is still plenty going on at Clemson. Senior writer Matt Connolly is ready to answer whatever questions you might have. You can submit your question for the “Question of the Day” here. Today’s question is about Xavier Thomas and Clemson’s defensive line.

What does Thomas need to start over Henry? Is he the better player?

— Mike McGraw (@MikeMmmcgra) April 18, 2021

The defensive line could end up being Clemson’s most talented and deepest position group in 2021.

At defensive tackle the Tigers have a couple of All-American candidates in Bryan Bresee and Tyler Davis. Meanwhile, defensive end Myles Murphy came in as a true freshman last year and led Clemson in tackles for loss with 12.

There are also plenty of veterans who should be key contributors, including K.J. Henry, Justin Mascoll and Xavier Thomas.

Right now the favorites to start appear to be Murphy, Davis, Bresee and Henry, but Thomas could certainly end up as a starter before the opener against Georgia on Sept. 4.

The former five-star recruit is one of the most talented players on the team who has an exceptional quick burst off the line and is capable of being a difference-maker as a pass rusher.

As for what he needs to do to earn a starting spot, I think it’s all about his mindset. There’s no doubt he has the talent to be a starter and a potential high draft pick.

But he has to show up to summer workouts and practices during fall camp and prove that he is 100% committed to being the best player he can be.

That means being present, on time and ready to work for every practice and meeting. It means not taking any reps off. It means looking like a potentially dominant player the way he did as a freshman.

Xavier Thomas had a strong spring for the Tigers. (Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)

Thomas had 10.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks in limited playing time his first year on campus in 2018. He’s had 12.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks combined over the past two seasons.

By all accounts Thomas had a strong spring and is capable of being a big part of Brent Venables’ defense this season. He did miss time due to protocol and with a banged up shoulder during spring practice, but he made the most of the reps he did get.

“When he’s been in there been really pleased with the things that he’s done,” Venables said this spring. “Boy, just pulling up some (video), how he played and where he was weight wise and all that as a freshman, we’re working hard to try to get him back there because that version is really good, really special. … When he’s been out there been pleased with what he’s able to bring to the table.”