Clemson football bolsters defense with ex-Purdue defensive end…

Clemson football is on a clear mission, as the program locked up a star defensive addition in the transfer portal. Former Purdue edge rusher Will Heldt will be officially joining the Tigers in 2025.

Heldt announced his commitment, and signed to Clemson on Friday, per Pete Nakos of On3 Sports. He recorded 56 tackles (10 for a loss), five sacks and one fumble return touchdown for the Boilermakers in his sophomore season.

“BREAKING: Purdue transfer EDGE Will Heldt has committed to Clemson, per ESPN. Heldt is the No. 1 EDGE in the On3 Transfer Portal and Dabo Swinney’s first defensive player out of the portal.”

Heldt finished with 68 tackles (11 for a loss) and was a true standout in two seasons playing at Purdue. He will enter his junior campaign as one of the most exciting defensive players to watch in the country, choosing Clemson after trips to LSU and Texas A&M.

While Swinney is excited about Clemson football’s 2025-26 recruiting class and the incoming transfers, the team has a golden opportunity ahead in the first round of the College Football Playoff against Texas.