Tigers Today: Xavier Thomas named one of best returning edge rushers

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Xavier Thomas named one of best returning edge defenders in nation

Clemson will be returning one of the top edge rushers in the nation next season.

Pro Football Focus recently listed the top 10 returning edge defenders for 2022, which included Xavier Thomas. A former five-star prospect, he recently opted to put off his NFL aspirations for another season and to return back to Clemson.

Thomas clocks in at No. 10 on the list. He finished this past season with 27 tackles and a third-team All-ACC selection. Many still believe he has a shot at being a first-round talent.

“Thomas got back on the right track this past season, earning a 76.7 pass-rush grade and 18.7% pass-rush win rate, 11th and fourth, respectively, among returning Power Five edge defenders,” wrote PFF’s Anthony Treash.

“What’s most encouraging about his performance this past season is his true pass-rush grade was nearly 25 grading points higher than the last time we saw him consistently on the field in 2019.”

Clemson lands commitment from 2022 linebacker Kobe McCloud

Clemson added another piece to its 2022 recruiting class on Wednesday as linebacker Kobe McCloud committed to the Tigers.

The Florida native, who is the younger brother of former Clemson receiver Ray-Ray McCloud, committed after wrapping up his official visit to Clemson this past weekend.

McCloud becomes the 16th member of Clemson’s 2022 class and is the fourth prospect to commit to the Tigers this month, joining receiver Cole Turner and defensive back Myles Oliver and Kylon Griffin.

Clemson Commitment Analysis: Impact of Kylon Griffin to the Tigers

Clemson’s coaching staff secured another victory on the recruiting trail this month.

Following his first-ever visit to the school, three-star safety Kylon Griffin announced his commitment to the Tigers on Tuesday. Griffin chose the program over Nebraska and the USC Trojans.

Clemson Sports analyzed the impact of this decision for the Tigers.

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