CLEMSON — Clemson football returned from spring break and began the second half of spring practice on Sunday.
The Tigers spent 11 spring sessions acclimating their freshmen, getting their position groups used to their new coach, making progress in various position battles and fine-tuning their offense, defense and special teams. This will culminate in Clemson's spring game on April 6 at Memorial Stadium.
With three sessions left until spring games, here are some early standouts from spring practice.
QB Christopher Vizzina
The redshirt freshman played just nine snaps before the season and was mostly doing mental reps while watching the Tigers. He finally got physical and impressed Clemson coach Dabo Swinney.
“Throughout 10 practices, he taught us all a little bit about 'deep breathing,'” Swinney said. “Don't worry about this kid, dude. He looks like the guy we expected when we hired him.”
Vizzina's confidence and understanding of his task has Swinney optimistic that Clemson can win games when the time is right.
“I’m not saying he’s Joe Montana, but I was impressed with his understanding,” Swinney said. “He made some mistakes…but again, he's getting better every day.”
WR Bryant Wesco Jr.
Nearly every player and coach has positive feedback about the five-star freshman. His mature playmaking ability and speed have the Tigers buzzing about his potential. After a fumble during the team's scrimmage on March 13, Wesco responded to adversity with a play that made up for it.
“He's calm and mature, which is rare for a young kid,” Swinney said. “There are a lot of kids who have the talent but don't have the mindset or the maturity to take it. He is like that.”
DB RJ Mickens
The graduate student returned for a fifth season to complete unfinished business. His drive was on display this spring, showing the IQ and athleticism to confuse wide receiver units.
“He's sneaky fast,” said wide receiver Troy Stellato, who is tied with him for the slot. “He's always advocating for every concept. He's smart, knowledgeable and sneaky.”
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DL Jaheim Lawson
The redshirt sophomore, whose older brother is former Clemson defensive lineman Shaq Lawson, has appeared in just 39 games throughout his collegiate career. Still, he showed off his skills and impressed his coaches and teammates. Swinney said Lawson's body is still developing, but he made plays during the team's scrimmage on March 13, including several sacks.
“I think he'll have a positive impact on our DL heading into the fall,” defensive end TJ Parker said. “Jachaim does some things that you wouldn't think anyone would do, but he does them very naturally.”
DB Tavoy Fegin
The four-star freshman from Tampa, Fla., is making the most of his opportunities this spring. Various cornerback injuries have thrown him into the fire, and he has received a ton of reps, including against the first team during the team's March 13 scrimmage.
Feagin's mental strength, backpedal, ball skills and positional fluidity impressed Swinney.
“What I like about him is he's not afraid,” Swinney said. “He might give up playing, but he won't shut himself up in a shell. He'll come right back.”
Derian Carter covers Clemson Athletics for The Greenville News and USA TODAY Network. Email dcarter@gannett.com and follow X (previously known as Twitter) @DerrianCarter00.
