Clemson Football: Freshman LB ‘Dialed In,’ Expected to Contribute Early

Wade Woodaz has quietly put together a very solid fall camp.

A member of the 2022 recruiting class, Woodaz was not an early enrollee, but according to defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin, the versatile linebacker has already worked himself into the two deep.

Woodaz’s versatility and his knowledge of the game has allowed him to excel in a reserve role, taking the second-team reps behind Barrett Carter at the ever-important SAM spot. Although, when the Tigers go to a nickel look, expect that role to be filled by Andrew Mukuba or Malcolm Greene.

As for Woodaz, Goodwin said the true freshman has everything it takes, both physically and mentally, to play at a high level in his first season with the program. And his versatility will allow the coaches to use him in a variety of situations.

“He’s a competitor,” Goodwin said. “He’s got great length and speed. He runs really well. Can change directions for that size. Really smart, really savvy. Really understands zone coverage, improving his man-technique every day. Can blitz him. A bigger body, can set the edge in the perimeter screen game. You can utilize him in various ways.” 

While there has only been a small sample size to date, Woodaz has taken advantage of every rep he gets, and so far, no moment has been big for the true freshman out of Tampa.

“Kind of a quiet kid, but all about his business,” Goodwin added. “The game hasn’t been too big since he’s been out there, scrimmages and all that. He’s dialed in and focused every rep he gets.”