Heldt’s six-sack season highlights Clemson’s defensive-front progress

Will Heldt had two sacks, two tackles for loss, four tackles and a pass deflection against Virginia Tech, bringing his season total to six sacks, tied for 13th nationally; he was named ACC Defensive Lineman of the Week. Defensive coordinator Tom Allen credited Heldt’s development. Linebacker Sammy Brown was also named a 2026 Butkus Award semifinalist, with finalists to be announced Nov. 20.