Clemson defensive back Cordrea Tankerlsey is putting the NFL on hold and coming back to help the Tigers finish what they started. Tankersley will reportedly return to Clemson in 2016 to finish his degree and maybe improve his NFL Draft stock. Tiger Net reported the news with information from Tankersley’s father Monday morning.
The return of Tankersley in 2016 is terrific news for Clemson, who should once again be a force in the ACC and could very well be set to start the 2016 season as one of the top two teams in college football by the major polls. Tankersley had 48 tackles and led the Tigers with five interceptions in 2015, including one returned for a touchdown. Tankersley was thought to be one of the top 10 cornerbacks in the NFL Draft had he declared by the deadline on Monday, so another solid season could help push him to the top of the rankings and up the draft boards of many NFL franchises.
Outside of his NFL future, Tankersley will provide Clemson with a battle-tested leader on defense. He will be the only returning senior in Clemson’s secondary, a position that will be replacing some key faces in 2016.
Underclassmen have until 5 p.m. ET today to declare for the 2016 NFL Draft.
