Observations from Clemson spring practice, including why two stars were absent
Clemson resumed spring practice on Friday, March 1 in its indoor facility. Here are some notes from the workout:
Notable absences
Clemson star running back Travis Etienne and linebacker Isaiah Simmons were not at practice as the two were attending the NFL combine in Indianapolis, according to a school official. Etienne and Simmons were two of several college football players selected to take part in a program where underclassmen are given a general overview of different things a potential NFL player could expect in the future. Tavien Feaster took first-team reps at running back with Etienne absent.
Tight end competition
J.C. Chalk continues to take first-team reps at tight end, with Braden Galloway going second. Galloway is big and fast and had an impressive day. He would likely play a big role in the 2019 offense if the suspension he is currently facing for failing a drug test for ostarine is overturned. Chalk is more of a blocking tight end, while Galloway is a better receiver. Freshman tight end Jaelyn Lay certainly looks the part, and Dabo Swinney described him as a guy that you want getting off the bus first. But Lay also had a bad drop in the hurry-up portion of the offense on a short pass that hit him in the hands. Swinney said Lay still has a long ways to go.
Impressive newcomers
Speaking of looking the part, freshmen receivers Frank Ladson and Joe Ngata certainly do that. Both players are listed at 6-foot-4 and look like athletic freaks. Scott said that Ladson, who wears No. 2, reminds him of former Tigers star Sammy Watkins, who also wore No. 2.
Starting center
Sean Pollard continues to take first-team reps at center and is snapping the ball well. He did not have any errant snaps during the open portion of practice on Friday. Tigers co-offensive coordinator Jeff Scott said following the workout that he has not noticed Pollard, and it is good news when you do not notice the center.
This story was originally published March 1, 2019 at 9:10 PM.
