The Clemson football program will bid farewell to a pair of mainstays following the Tigers’ upcoming bowl game. Junior linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. will forego his senior season and declare for the NFL draft. Back-up quarterback Hunter Helms, meanwhile, becomes the first Clemson player to state his intention to enter the transfer portal.
Trotter Jr. and Helms each announced their respective decisions on Tuesday afternoon within hours of each other.
This week the transfer portal opens for players intending to relocate, and it is expected that multiple Clemson players will ultimately join Helms, though it is yet to be determined or announced who might depart. Trotter Jr., as expected, will turn pro and is projected as the number two overall linebacker on the draft board when selections take place in April.
This season, Jeremiah has recorded 54 solo tackles, 5.5 sacks, two interceptions, and a touchdown scored on one of the picks. In his three-year career, Trotter Jr. has amassed 112 solo tackles, 13 sacks, and four interceptions. His speed and ability to also play in coverage make him a coveted draft prospect for any team looking to upgrade defensively.
Jeremiah, in his announcement posted via Instagram, thanked Clemson fans for all of the support shown to him and his family over the past three years.
“Last but not least, thank you Clemson fans!” wrote Trotter Jr. “During my time at Clemson you have shown my family and I nothing but love and appreciation. We have the best fans in the country. I will never forget the energy you filled Death Valley with during every home game. I will always be a Clemson Tiger. Go Tigers!”
Jeremiah Trotter Jr.
Helms announced a few hours later than he would enter the transfer portal. The back-up quarterback from Columbia, SC has spent the last four years backing up the likes of Trevor Lawrence, D.J. Uiagalelei, and Cade Klubnik.
Over his Clemson career, Helms appeared in nine games, completing 23 passes for 218 yards and two touchdowns. He, too, was thankful for the opportunity to play at Clemson and expressed his appreciation.
“I couldn’t have had a better four years,” he posted. “I have learned so many life lessons and have gained lifelong friends while doing it. The many things I learned will be with me for the rest of my life. I am very thankful for the coaches, trainers, and staff that helped me be my best every day on and off the field.”
Hunter Helms
Trotter Jr. and Helms have not announced whether they will play or be available for Clemson’s to-be-determined bowl game.
