Clemson Stars Waiting for the Call as NFL Draft Week Begins

Safety R.J. Mickens is expected to go in the fifth round to the Detroit Lions, where his intelligence and range could earn him a rotational role early. Tight end Jake Briningstool, a tall, athletic pass-catcher, is projected to the New England Patriots in round seven, while defensive tackle Payton Page could hear his name late on Day 3, potentially heading to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Several others may be waiting longer. Running back Phil Mafah, offensive lineman Marcus Tate, and punter Aidan Swanson are expected to go undrafted but are all projected to sign with teams quickly after the draft — Mafah with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Tate with the Seattle Seahawks, and Swanson with the Atlanta Falcons.

Swanson’s landing spot is particularly interesting. Atlanta’s current punter, Bradley Pinion, is a Clemson product himself and entering the final year of his contract. At just 32, he’s still effective, but the Falcons may be eyeing a younger, cheaper option for the future.

Clemson had six players drafted in 2024. This year’s class might not match that number, but several of these Tigers could still carve out long careers on Sundays — whether their names are called this weekend or not.