Clemson Transfer Safety Aims to Match NFL Father's Legacy

Jerome Carter III joins Tigers after portal stint, hoping to follow in father's footsteps.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 3:55pm

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Clemson has added transfer safety Jerome Carter III to its 2026 roster, as the program continues to bolster its defensive backfield through the NCAA transfer portal. Carter, whose father Jerome Carter Sr. played in the NFL for the Arizona Cardinals, is looking to make his own mark at the college level after a previous stint at another university.

Why it matters

Clemson has had a strong defensive tradition, especially in the secondary, and the addition of Carter III provides the Tigers with an experienced safety who could make an immediate impact. As the son of an NFL player, Carter III brings a unique pedigree and set of expectations as he aims to follow in his father's professional footsteps.

The details

Carter III spent the previous two seasons at a different FBS program before entering the transfer portal this offseason. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound safety recorded 87 total tackles, 3 interceptions, and 6 pass breakups during his time with his former team. Clemson is hoping Carter III can provide a veteran presence and playmaking ability to a secondary that lost several key contributors from last season's squad.

  • Carter III entered the transfer portal in January 2026.
  • Carter III officially joined the Clemson program in February 2026.

The players

Jerome Carter III

A transfer safety who is joining the Clemson football program after spending the previous two seasons at another FBS school.

Jerome Carter Sr.

The father of Jerome Carter III, who played in the NFL for the Arizona Cardinals.

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What they’re saying

“I'm excited for the opportunity to play at a program like Clemson and continue my family's legacy in the sport. My dad had a great career in the NFL, and I'm hoping I can follow a similar path.”

— Jerome Carter III

What’s next

Carter III will participate in Clemson's spring practice sessions as he looks to earn a starting role in the Tigers' secondary for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The addition of Jerome Carter III through the transfer portal provides Clemson with an experienced safety who comes from an NFL pedigree. If Carter III can live up to his potential, he could help solidify the Tigers' defensive backfield as the program aims to compete for another ACC championship and playoff berth.