Clemson loses another starter defensive back to the transfer pedal

5 days ago 2

Clemson’s defense is dealing with another significant departure.

Starting safety Ricardo Jones is entering the transfer portal, adding to a growing list of exits from the Tigers’ secondary this offseason. Jones confirmed the move with a post on X late Saturday night.

Jones spent two seasons at Clemson and emerged as one of the team’s most productive defensive backs during the 2025 campaign. After starting 12 of the Tigers’ 13 games, he earned third-team All-ACC recognition while leading the conference with six interceptions, a mark that also ranked second nationally. His performance against South Carolina stood out as a defining moment of the season, as he recorded two interceptions in the rivalry win, including a pick-six that helped put the game away.

Over 25 career games, Jones totaled 68 tackles, two tackles for loss, seven interceptions, five pass breakups, a sack, and a forced fumble across 862 defensive snaps. His development into a reliable playmaker was a bright spot for a Clemson defense that leaned heavily on its secondary in key moments.

Jones’ departure continues a trend for the Tigers, who have now lost two starting safeties from the 2025 defense after Khalil Barnes also entered the portal. Reserve safety Rob Billings is expected to move on as well.

Jones will have two seasons of eligibility remaining and becomes the 11th Clemson player to enter the transfer portal.

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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson football loses Ricardo Jones to the transfer portal

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