Clemson University and its head coach, Dabo Swinney, are actively making moves in the transfer portal, marking a significant change from last season when they did not acquire any transfers. This week, the team secured its second addition by welcoming former Purdue defensive end Will Heldt, whose signing was confirmed by Swinney on Thursday.

Heldt, a 6-foot-6, 265-pound lineman, spent his initial two seasons with the Purdue Boilermakers. Over the course of 24 games, he tallied an impressive 56 tackles, including 10 for a loss, and recorded five sacks. Additionally, he made a notable play this fall by returning a fumble recovery for a 16-yard touchdown. Just 19 years old and hailing from Carmel, Indiana, Heldt has two years of eligibility remaining, bolstering Clemson’s defensive lineup.

Historically, Swinney has shied away from utilizing the transfer portal, opting instead to bring in transfer quarterbacks to strengthen the depth chart. Last year, Clemson, alongside service academies such as Army, Navy, and Air Force, stood out as the only teams in the Football Bowl Subdivision without new additions from the transfer portal. However, this trend is shifting as the Tigers have recognized the need for reinforcements.

Earlier in the week, Clemson also signed fifth-year wide receiver Tristan Smith from Southeast Missouri State. Swinney indicated that this move was essential due to the recent departures of receivers Troy Stellato and Noble Johnson, who entered the transfer portal.

The defensive end position was identified as another critical area for the Tigers heading into the 2025 season. Clemson had a successful run this year, recently becoming the Atlantic Coast Conference champions and earning the 12th seed in the upcoming 12-team College Football Playoff. Ranked 13th, the Tigers are set to square off against No. 4 Texas in the first round this Saturday.