Former Clemson defensive end Clelin Ferrell became the first Tiger taken in the 2019 NFL Draft

Former Clemson defensive end Clelin Ferrell became the first Tiger taken in the 2019 NFL Draft, as he was selected by the Raiders with the fourth pick in the first round Thursday night.

Former Clemson defensive end Clelin Ferrell became the first Tiger taken in the 2019 NFL Draft, as he was selected by the Raiders with the fourth pick in the first round Thursday night.

Ferrell redshirted the 2015 season before a prolific run as a three-year starter from 2016-18, as he completed college career with 166 tackles, 50 tackles for loss, 27.0 sacks, 51 quarterback pressures, seven pass breakups and five caused fumbles in 2,167 snaps over 44 games (all starts).

Ferrell left Clemson as only the second two-time, first-team AP All-American and the school’s first such player since 1981-82 despite playing only three seasons. His 44 starts were the most by any defensive end/outside linebacker in school history and ranked tied for fourth in Clemson history with 27 career sacks, tied with William “Refrigerator” Perry.

According to the NFL, Ferrell is a "Highly productive 4-3 defensive end with prototypical size, length and strength to offer early help against both the run and pass. Playing next to NFL talent in all three years certainly made things easier for Ferrell, but his edge-setting and rush plan improvements are self-made. His rush can be leggy and gradual and might not get home as often in the pros, but NFL coaching might further unleash his physical traits and turn him into a star. Ferrell is a complete defender and steady talent who could start early for a 4-3 stop unit."