The Clemson Insider · Jul 16, 2019
Bates excited for challenge and potential in new-look defensive line
Clemson’s starting defensive front from 2018 is gone.
It finished as one of the premier position units in the country on the way to the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship win. The unit churned out three first-round NFL Draft picks in defensive end Clelin Ferrell (No. 4 overall), defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (No. 13 overall) and defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (No. 17 overall).
All three of those guys along with Austin Bryant (No. 117 overall pick) are set to make an impact in the NFL this season and made way for fresh faces on the Clemson front this season, posing a unique challenge for Tiger defensive tackle coach Todd Bates.