Clemson Football star defensive end Xavier Thomas has been the consummate Tiger. The sixth-year senior, who played in his final collegiate game against Kentucky in the Gator Bowl, announced his intention to enter the NFL draft in a heartfelt letter shared on X (formerly Twitter) to Clemson fans.
Joining Thomas in the professional ranks will be Clemson cornerback Sheridan Jones. Jones, who missed the Gator Bowl due to injury, also announced his intention to turn pro. In retrospect, both Thomas and Jones will be remembered not just for their talent on the field, but for the grace and class with which they represented Clemson University. The fact that Thomas spent six years playing for Clemson, in the age of the transfer portal and NIL, is in itself nearly unheard of.
In his letter Thomas wrote, in part, “Wow, we are finally here. One hell of a journey it was. When people ask me if I would change anything? As crazy as it sounds, no, I wouldn’t. Every obstacle, every lesson, everything that was thrown my way during my college career has molded me into the player and the man I am today. I would not change a thing.”
Xavier Thomas
Thomas’ full statement is below.
During the 2023 season, Thomas had 16 tackles and three sacks. He posted a sack in the Tigers’ win on Saturday. For his career, Thomas finishes with 116 tackles and 17.5 sacks.
Sheridan Jones was a mainstay of the Clemson secondary for five seasons. A graduate senior, Jones also announced his intent to enter the NFL draft. Jones wrote on X:
“Wow, what an amazing five years it’s been. Through all the trials and tribulations, I am so glad I chose this wonderful university to help better me, not only as a football player, but as a man.”
Sheridan Jones
Jones’s entire letter can be read below:
In 2023, Jones played in nine games before being sidelined by injury. He posted 23 tackles, two tackles for loss, and an interception. For his five-year career, Sheridan accounted for 91 tackles, five tackles for loss, and three interceptions.
Two of the true leaders of the Clemson defense, both Thomas and Jones will be greatly missed by Clemson coaches, teammates, and fans alike.
