Clemson Standout Could Make Surprising Noise in Rookie NFL Season

Former Clemson Tigers running back Adam Randall was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the fifth round of the NFL Draft back in April, which was actually a higher selection than some initially expected.

Randall spent his first three years at Clemson as a wide receiver before transitioning to the backfield for his senior campaign, and he relished the opportunity.

The 6-foot-3, 232-pound workhorse rushed for 814 yards and 10 touchdowns while averaging 4.8 yards per carry in 2025 while also hauling in 36 receptions for 254 yards and three scores.

That versatility is a big reason why the Ravens gambled on Randall with a relatively early Day 3 pick, and it could pay dividends for Baltimore.

Randall is looking very good in Ravens training camp, and while he is currently fourth on the depth chart behind Derrick Henry, Justice Hill and Rasheen Ali, his unique skillset should result in the 22-year-old receiving legitimate playing time during his rookie campaign.

Because of Randall's unique blend of size and athleticism, he could ultimately develop into one of the more surprising weapons in the NFL this season, especially for a Ravens team that relies a whole lot on short passes.

Lamar Jackson has heavily utilized his tight ends since becoming Baltimore's full-time starter midway through 2018, and Randall could be used in a similar capacity.

Yes, Randall is a halfback by nominal position, but he has the ability to line up all over the field, and he is very difficult to tackle.

Isaiah Likely — who is now playing for the New York Giants — spent four seasons serving as the Ravens' No. 2 tight end behind Mark Andrews, and he stood 6-foot-4 and weighed 245 pounds. That's definitely a bit bigger than Randall, but not so much where it's overwhelmingly noticeable.

Baltimore is looking for a secondary tight end now that Likely is gone. Fourth-round rookie Durham Smythe could potentially fill that role, but it would not be shocking if the Ravens used Randall in that spot, either.

During his time at Clemson, Randall was never viewed as a superstar; just a solid player. But he could end up being the prime example of a player who actually has more utility on the professional level than the collegiate ranks.