CLEMSON, S.C. -- Brent Venables had just finished a midday workout, but in case he needed more cardio, the Clemson defensive coordinator began recapping the team's losses in the secondary.
Three of the four starters from 2015 -- cornerback Mackensie Alexander and safeties Jayron Kearse and T.J. Green -- opted to enter the NFL draft, skipping their final seasons of eligibility. Travis Blanks, another of Clemson's early draft entries, played some safety in addition to linebacker. Safety Jefferie Gibson, considered a candidate to fill a starting position, transferred in January.