Clemson LB Sammy Brown ranked No. 8 among returning college linebackers

Pro Football Focus released its preseason ranking of the top ten returning linebackers for the 2026 college football season, placing Clemson junior Sammy Brown at No. 8.

Brown, a 6‑foot‑2, 235‑pound hybrid, is projected as a top‑40 pick in the 2027 NFL Draft. PFF highlighted his near‑22 mph top speed, five pass break‑ups in 2025 (tied for most nationally), and a 6.1 % missed‑tackle rate that ranks in the 91st percentile. In the 2025 season he logged 106 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, five pass deflections, a forced fumble and an interception, earning first‑team all‑conference honors and a preseason All‑American nod. Earlier accolades include ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year (2024) and freshman All‑America honors.