Clemson Signs Purdue Edge Rusher Will Heldt in Rare Portal Move

Head coach Dabo Swinney departs from his traditional recruiting strategy to address roster needs ahead of the College Football Playoff.

Clemson has signed Purdue defensive end Will Heldt, marking the second transfer portal addition for the Tigers this week and the first defensive player Dabo Swinney has ever taken from the portal.
Heldt, a 6-foot-6, 265-pound sophomore, recorded 56 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, five sacks, and a fumble recovery touchdown during the 2024 season at Purdue.
This move reflects a shift in Swinney’s recruiting approach, as Clemson previously avoided portal acquisitions, only making rare exceptions for backup quarterbacks in recent years.
Clemson’s need for depth at defensive end arose after a key recruit decommitted, and the team prepares for a matchup against Texas in the College Football Playoff this Saturday.
Heldt’s departure leaves Purdue with significant gaps in its pass rush, as the team has struggled to maintain defensive consistency following several high-profile losses.