Clemson Tigers Eyeing All-American Candidates for 2026 Season

Three standout players could earn top honors for the Tigers next year

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Despite the offseason, it's never too early to speculate about Clemson football in 2026. The Tigers will look to bounce back next season with the help of 10 transfers and the hiring of former offensive coordinator Chad Morris. Three players in particular - linebacker Sammy Brown, wide receiver T.J. Moore, and defensive end Will Heldt - are expected to be strong All-American candidates for Clemson in 2026.

Why it matters

Clemson is aiming to return to prominence in the ACC and nationally after a down year in 2025. Having multiple All-American candidates would be a sign that the Tigers are reloading and poised for a big bounce-back season, which is crucial for the program's continued success and recruiting efforts.

The details

Linebacker Sammy Brown is the cornerstone of Clemson's defense, earning first-team All-ACC honors in 2025 with 106 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, a forced fumble, and an interception. Wide receiver T.J. Moore was the Tigers' leading receiver last season with 52 catches for 852 yards and 4 touchdowns, and he could thrive in the new offensive scheme under Chad Morris. Defensive end Will Heldt, a Purdue transfer, led Clemson in sacks (7.5) and tackles for loss (15.5) in 2025 and will be the team's top pass rusher next season.

  • Sammy Brown earned first-team All-ACC honors in 2025.
  • T.J. Moore was Clemson's leading receiver in 2025 with 52 catches for 852 yards and 4 touchdowns.
  • Will Heldt led Clemson in sacks (7.5) and tackles for loss (15.5) in 2025.

The players

Sammy Brown

Clemson linebacker who was a first-team All-ACC selection in 2025 after recording 106 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, a forced fumble, and an interception.

T.J. Moore

Clemson wide receiver who was the team's leading receiver in 2025 with 52 catches for 852 yards and 4 touchdowns.

Will Heldt

Clemson defensive end who transferred from Purdue and led the Tigers in sacks (7.5) and tackles for loss (15.5) in 2025.

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The takeaway

Clemson is reloading with talented players across the roster, and these three standouts - Sammy Brown, T.J. Moore, and Will Heldt - could lead the Tigers' charge back to national prominence with potential All-American seasons in 2026.