Eric MacLain

Photo Courtesy of Roy Philpott - CUTigers.com

Why be excited: He's a big-body tight end who brings advanced blocking skills to the tight end position. When he first appeared on the recruiting radar, he was generally considered to be an offensive tackle prospect (ESPN originally listed him among the top 30 nationally at the position). But MacLain had other ideas. He dropped 30 pounds, worked to perfect his pass-catching and route-running skills, and emerged as one of the nation's top tight end prospects.

You may not know: MacLain was once committed to Tennessee, where he was recruited by current Clemson defensive line coach Dan Brooks.

Where he fits into the depth chart: MacLain has early playing time written all over him, and should compete with Sam Cooper and Brandon Ford next fall for playing time behind Dwayne Allen.