2016 National Signing Day: Clemson Early Enrollee Dexter Lawrence

Our current 2016 War Daddy, and hopefully joined by another one later today, early enrollee Dexter Lawrence is the type of player coaches build DLs around. At Clemson he will hopefully be another lineman in a recent line of players having success at the position. Lawrence, a 5-star recruit from Wake Forest, North Carolina, is going to contribute pretty quickly at the DT position.

Lawrence comes into Clemson at 6'5" 327 and may even lose weight now that he is on campus. That may only make him even more dangerous at the DT position where he is going to likely make the 2-deep and could even push for a starting spot depending on how quickly he grasps the position at Clemson.

Lawrence was recruited heavily by some of the major programs including Alabama and Ohio State, but it was Atlantic Division rival NC State that was Clemson's biggest competition. Thankfully the turmoil at NC State plus Clemson's success meant Lawrence is in the Upstate for his college career.

QT's Take:

The #2 player in the nation. WAR DADDY--like capital letters WAR DADDY. It almost feels like we may have forgotten just how good of a player we get in Dexter Lawrence. Before focusing on the physical traits though, I think an important thing to add is we just got a super person as well. He has already gelled with teammates and truly is a gentle giant personality. Low maintenance guy who will be a quiet leader and example.

Dex has unreal athleticism for a guy his size. He already plays with good leverage, quick off the ball, good feet and an elite rip move. He has all the athleticism to be a first round draft pick but also has advanced technique, especially his ability to use his hands and shed defenders. Very valuable player because there just aren't that many big bodies like Lawrence who can play Nose Tackle at an elite level. Pair him with Wilkins and watch out. I don't see another interior line as talented as Clemson with Lawrence in the fold. Reminds me of Chester McGlockton. Also keep in mind that Lawrence can stuff the run on the interior as a rock, but also has the burst to rush the passer. He lined up at DE in high school and I can see situations where he is moved along the line because he is that athletic. It was definitely discussed during his recruitment.

Also keeping him from NC State is important. Dave Doeren has a good defensive line brewing but Lawrence would have taken it to the next level. Clemson once again goes into North Carolina and pushes away the instate schools when desired.