Clemson Tigers Announce ACC Kickoff Representatives

Clemson Tigers will be represented by linebacker Sammy Brown, defensive end Will Heldt, and tight end Olsen Patt-Henry at the 2026 ACC Kickoff.

Who are the representatives?

The conference announced Wednesday that Brown, one of Clemson's emerging defensive stars, will attend the event.

He'll be joined by Heldt, a key offseason addition, and Patt-Henry, who gives the offense veteran representation.

What's the significance of the selection?

Brown's inclusion comes as little surprise after he quickly became one of the Tigers' most recognizable young defenders.

Heldt earned the opportunity before ever playing a game in orange, while Patt-Henry provides veteran presence.

Why is the quarterback absent?

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from Clemson's delegation is who's missing, as the Tigers opted not to send their starting quarterback, Cade Klubnik.

This marks the program's first ACC Kickoff without a quarterback since 2019.

The event will take place July 15-17 in Charlotte, with Clemson's scheduled media day on Thursday, July 16.

Head coach Dabo Swinney and the three Tigers will spend the day meeting with reporters from around the league.

And with their next game vs LSU Tigers on 2026-09-05, the ACC Kickoff serves as a bridge between the offseason and the start of preseason practice.

Live coverage from Charlotte will air on ACC Network throughout all three days of the event.

So the Clemson Tigers are gearing up for the new season with a strong representation at the ACC Kickoff.

But the absence of a quarterback raises questions about the team's strategy.

The ACC Kickoff traditionally brings together all 17 head coaches along with selected players from each program to preview the upcoming season.