Four Defensive Standouts From Clemson Tigers' Spring Game

Clemson's annual spring game showcased several defensive players who stood out in the team's intrasquad scrimmage.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 9:04pm

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Clemson held its annual spring game on Saturday, with the Orange team defeating the White team 23-3. Head coach Dabo Swinney highlighted several defensive players who had standout performances, including defensive tackle Vic Burley, edge rusher London Merritt, and cornerback Donovan Starr.

Why it matters

The spring game provides an early look at Clemson's 2026 team and allows coaches to evaluate players as they prepare for the upcoming season. Strong defensive showings from players like Burley, Merritt, and Starr could earn them increased roles and playing time in the fall.

The details

Burley finished with 2.5 sacks, disrupting the quarterbacks' ability to move out of the pocket. Merritt, a Colorado transfer, also had 2.5 sacks and four total tackles, proving himself as a dangerous pass rusher. Starr, an Auburn transfer, impressed in coverage, forcing an incompletion against receiver Tyler Brown.

  • The spring game took place on Saturday, March 28, 2026.

The players

Vic Burley

A redshirt junior defensive tackle looking to earn a starting spot on the defensive line after the departures of Peter Woods and DeMonte Capehart to the NFL Draft.

London Merritt

A Colorado transfer and Freshman All-American last season, he is looking to build on his strong performance and prove himself as a dangerous pass rusher for the Clemson defense.

Donovan Starr

An Auburn transfer cornerback who impressed in coverage during the spring game, jockeying with receiver Tyler Brown and forcing an incompletion.

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What they’re saying

“What I take away is more of it's just my opportunity to shine. Just like Coach Swinney said, I've been in the crockpot for a while, been cooking up, and now's my chance. So, I took the spring as I got to show the world that I'm a big person.”

— Vic Burley, Defensive Tackle

“London Merritt, what a great addition. C.J. Wesley, got a couple more guys coming this summer, so we're just better. We're just better across the board defensively.”

— Dabo Swinney, Head Coach

What’s next

Burley, Merritt, and Starr will look to continue their strong play during fall camp as they compete for starting roles on the Clemson defense ahead of the 2026 season opener against LSU in Baton Rouge.

The takeaway

Clemson's spring game showcased several defensive standouts who could play key roles for the Tigers in 2026. Players like Burley, Merritt, and Starr are seizing their opportunities to earn more playing time and solidify their spots on the depth chart.