Local Breakdown on NFL Draft Day Three
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Three Clemson players heard their names called on the final day of the 2017 NFL Draft. Others from area schools are starting their pro careers as undrafted free agents.
Tigers running back Wane Gallman (4th rd, 140th overall) was selected by the New York Giants, the first national champion taken on Saturday.
Just two picks late (4th rd, 142nd overall), former teammate Carlos Watkins found out he was on his way to play again with Deshaun Watson, selected by the Houston Texans.
The final CU alum to be drafted was tight end Jordan Leggett (5th rd, 150th overall), selected by the New York Jets.
As of midnight Sunday morning, three more of Dabo Swinney’s former players have agreed to join teams as undrafted free agents. Orangeburg-Wilkinson and Tigers safety Jadar Johnson will be alongside Gallman with the Giants, agreeing to terms with New York.
They won’t be the only Tigers rookies set to play together; WR Artavis Scott is linking back up with Mike Williams, choosing to join the Los Angeles Chargers after not hearing his name called.
Watson’s former backup QB is also getting an opportunity to prove himself in the NFL, agreeing to a deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
One of the key leaders of the Tigers’ Title winning defense wasn’t selected in the draft, but chose to start his NFL tenure at home in the Carolinas. LB Ben Boulware is set to join the Panthers.
The Gamecocks saw zero players picked by the 32 NFL franchises over seven rounds and 253 selections. It’s the first time since 2001 USC went without a prospect nabbed by a team, but three Carolina alums have agreed to deals as undrafted free agents.
Chapin alum and former Carolina offensive lineman Mason Zandi is set to join the LA Chargers.
Former Dutch Fork Silver Fox and Gamecocks long snapper is signing on to play in the pros with the Tampa Bay Buccanneers.
According to multiple reports, Darius English will look to latch on to the Atlanta Falcons after earning an opportunity to play for the defending NFC Champions.
Fellow defensive lineman Marquavius Lewis reportedly has a deal in place with the Buffalo Bills.
For others with local ties, Ben Lippen alum and former Citadel fullback Tyler Renew is off to Atlanta himself.
Former SC State offensive lineman Javarius Leamon is on his way north as one of the newest members of the New York Jets.
