Clemson’s defensive front has been a strength this season, with Will Heldt giving the Tigers a consistent presence off the edge. The junior’s production has also helped strengthen his case as a future NFL contributor.
Heldt has seven sacks, including three over his last two games, and was arguably Clemson’s most impactful player against Virginia Tech. Alongside cornerback Ashton Hampton, he has been one of the Tigers’ top performers throughout the season.
At 6-foot-6 and 260 pounds, Heldt possesses the size and length NFL teams seek in an edge defender. That frame stood out during his time at Purdue, but his development since transferring to Clemson has given evaluators more to consider beyond his physical measurements.
ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper
highlighted that progress while assessing Heldt’s professional outlook.
“His polished pass-rush tools are on full display every week for the Tigers. Heldt is quick to diagnose and takes good angles to the QB. And he can play standing up or with a hand down in the dirt. He’s a Day 2 prospect at the moment.”
Dabo Swinney is ready to build Clemson back up to top of college football
— Clemson Wire (@Clemson_Wire) November 2, 2026
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Elite explosiveness remains a question when projecting Heldt to the next level. However, his technique, awareness and ability to rush from multiple alignments give him several qualities that could translate well to the NFL.
For Clemson, his recent production offers another reason for optimism down the stretch. Continuing that success would help the Tigers finish strong while giving Heldt an opportunity to further establish himself among the draft’s edge prospects.
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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: ESPN’s Mel Kiper taking notice in Clemson star EDGE rusher
