FROM THE TIGER FAN SHOP: Click HERE for more DEALS on officially-licensed CLEMSON apparel and gear!

More first-year freshmen have factored prominently for Clemson this season than in recent memory, as increased absences and relaxed redshirting rules have created more opportunities.

Join Tigerillustrated.com subscribers on The West Zone message board!

The Tigers are in line to welcome another top-five recruiting class, the bulk of which became locked in during last month's early signing period.

In this feature, Tigerillustrated.com has an inside look at the projected early impact from the Tigers' newcomers – starting with the defensive signees in this edition.