Clemson’s defensive depth has taken another hit with the announcement that defensive end A.J. Hoffler is entering the transfer portal. Hoffler, who has two years of eligibility remaining, confirmed the news on his Instagram account following a report by On3 Sports. This marks the latest departure in what has been an active transfer period for the Tigers.
Hoffler’s Clemson Journey
Hoffler has been a consistent contributor to Clemson’s defense during his time with the program. In the 2024 season, he appeared in all 14 games, registering 13 total tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and three quarterback pressures across 245 snaps, averaging 17.5 snaps per game. As a true freshman in 2023, Hoffler played in seven games, logging 74 total snaps. His ability to appear in more than the four-game threshold for redshirting highlighted his value to the team early in his career.
Despite his consistent presence on the field, Hoffler never started a game during his Clemson tenure. He served primarily as a rotational defensive end, contributing in key matchups but often seeing his playing time fluctuate. For instance, after playing more than 20 snaps in three consecutive games against Pittsburgh, The Citadel, and South Carolina, his role diminished in high-stakes games. Hoffler played only 12 snaps during the ACC Championship game against SMU and seven snaps in Clemson’s College Football Playoff first-round loss to Texas.
Recruiting Background
Hoffler joined Clemson in the Class of 2022 as a four-star recruit. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 255 pounds, the Florida native showcased his talents at high school in Georgia. Ranked as the No. 312 overall recruit in his class, he was expected to be a key part of Clemson’s defensive line rotation. While he showed flashes of potential, Hoffler’s role never expanded into a starting position.
A Changing Defensive Landscape at Clemson
Hoffler’s decision to transfer comes as Clemson continues to address inconsistency at defensive end. The team relied heavily on sophomore standout T.J. Parker, but the other defensive end spot saw a rotating cast of players, including Hoffler, struggling to establish a consistent presence. Clemson has been proactive in bolstering the position, signing former Purdue defensive end Will Heldt via the transfer portal and securing a commitment from Ari Watford, a highly touted four-star recruit in the Class of 2025.
Hoffler’s departure leaves Clemson with seven scholarship defensive ends for the 2025 season, which could prompt the coaching staff to explore additional options in the transfer portal to solidify the position group.
A Busy Transfer Period for Clemson
Hoffler is the fourth Clemson player to enter the transfer portal this offseason and the second defensive player to leave the program. Other transfers include wide receivers Troy Stellato and Noble Johnson, who committed to Arizona State, and defensive back Sherrod Covil Jr., who joined Virginia Tech. Hoffler’s exit reflects broader challenges for the Tigers as they manage roster turnover while preparing for the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead
Hoffler’s decision to seek opportunities elsewhere underscores the evolving landscape of college football, where players increasingly prioritize playing time and fit. For Clemson, his departure highlights the need for depth and stability along the defensive line. As the Tigers prepare for the 2025 season, the coaching staff will be tasked with integrating new additions and maximizing the potential of the remaining scholarship players to maintain their defensive prowess.
This offseason will be a critical period for Clemson to reinforce its defensive line and develop the next wave of talent to support stars like T.J. Parker. For Hoffler, the transfer portal offers a fresh start and the chance to carve out a more prominent role elsewhere.
BREAKING: Former 4-star Clemson defensive End signee decomits, enters transfer portal
