Well, here we go. It’s time to start ranking the best players in the ACC for the 2023 season.
As usual, we hope you enjoy the rankings.
Previous and Upcoming Rankings
Quarterbacks | Running Backs | Wide Receivers | Offensive Linemen |
Tight Ends | Defensive Lineman | Cornerbacks | Safeties | Special Teams
1) Barrett Carter, Clemson
Clemson is loaded on the defensive side of the ball. I’m not sure DC Wes Goodwin always got the most of a talented Clemson defense last year, but if he does the Tigers could have a top-10 defense with LB Barrett Carter help leading the way. Last season Carter was an Honorable Mention All-ACC player, but there are big expectations this year. Carter has made a number of pre-season All-American teams and is projected 2nd round NFL pick.
2) Cedric Gray, North Carolina
Last year North Carolina’s defense was inconsistent at best, but LB Cedric Gray was a star. He led the country in tackles with a whopping 137. SportingNews named him a 2022 All-American. PFF called him one of ten linebackers to know this year in college football. He’s projected as a top 3 round NFL pick.
3) Payton Wilson, NC State
NC State got welcome news with the return of Payton Wilson at LB. Wilson has been an All-ACC caliber performer for years, and once again he’s on virtually every pre-season All-ACC team. Last season he had 82 tackles and 12.5 tackles for loss. He has good speed and is an instinctive player, who may leave NC State as one of the better linebackers in their history.
4) Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Clemson
Between Barrett Carter and now Jeremiah Trotter, Clemson has the best linebacking duo in the ACC. Last season Trotter garnered All-ACC and some All-American honors. He led the Tigers with 92 tackles and 13.5 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks. Do I have Trotter too low? ProFootballNetwork has had Carter and Trotter as the #1 and #2 linebackers in the nation. Some projections have Trotter going as high as the 1st round.
5) Tatum Bethune, Florida State
UCF transfer Tatum Bethune really had a fine first season at Florida State. Last year saw Betune total 84 tackles with 9.5 for loss. He was one better linebackers in the AAC during his time at Central Florida, and he’s already become of the ACC’s best linebackers. He is considered a mid to late-round NFL pick. Bethune is just another talented player on a loaded Florida State team.
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