Clemson University has made a significant addition to its football program by appointing Kevin Kelly as the Director of Player Evaluation & Acquisition. strategic move, announced by Head Coach Dabo Swinney and finalized by the Clemson University Board of Trustees Compensation Committee on February 7, 2025, aims to bolster the Tigers’ talent acquisition and evaluation processes.
Kevin Kelly’s Profesal Background
Kevin Kelly brings over two decades of NFL scouting and talent evaluatixperience to Clemson. His most recent tenure was with the Los Angeles Chargers, where he served for 12 seasons. From 2013 to 2023, Kelly helthe position of Senrirector of College Scouting before being promoted to Senior Scouting Executive in 2024.
Throughout his career with the Chargers, Kelly was instrumentin drafting several sndout players:
- Joey Bosa: Selected in 2016, Bosa earned the title of Defensiveoe of the Year.
- Justin Herbert: Drafted in 2020, Herbert secured the Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
- Derwin James: A i-time All-Pro selection, James has been a cornerstone of the Chargers’ defense.
Notably, seven of the Chargers’ t-round picks during Kelly’s tenure achieved Pro Bowl honors, underscoring his keen eye for talent. Additionally, in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Chargerselected Clemson’s n Mike Williams with the No. 7 ovall pick. Williams led all qualified NFL receivers with 20.4 yards per reception 19, highlighting Kelly’s ability to identify and acquire top-tier talent.
Dabo Swinney’s Perspective
Head Coach Dabo Swinney expressed enthusiasm about Kelly’s addition to the staff:
“I’m super excited to have Kevin Kelly joining our staff. To be able to add someone with his experience is a greatenefit to Clemson. ’got over 20 years of front office experience in scouting and evaluation of player personnel, so he will bring a wealth of experience and be able to work alongside Generalnager Jordan Sorrells, Director Recruiting Ty Clements, and the rest of our staff on yer acquisition, evaluationand retention.”
Swinney’s comments highlight the collaboive approach Clems intends to take, integrating Kelly’s NFL experience with the existing recruitment and evaluation framework.
Role and Renbilities
In his new role, Kelly will focus on several key areas:
- Player Acquisition: Identifying and securing top talent to join the Clemson football program.
- *Evaluati: Assessing the skills anpotential of prospective and current players to ensure optimal team composition.
- Retention: Implementing strategies to maintain playeratisfaction and comtment, reducing transfer rates and fosteng team cohesion.
Kelly will collaborate closely with General Manager Jordan Sorrells and Director of Recruiting Ty Clements to enhance Clemson’s ctitive edge in player recruitment and development.
Contractualtails
The Clemson Universy Board of Trustees Compensation Committee has approved a two-year conct for Kelly, with an annual salaryf $360,000.
Implications for Clemson Football
The hiring of Kevin Kelly signifies Clemson’s commitment to strengthening football programhrough experienced talent acquisition and evaluation. By leveraging Kelly’s extensive NFL background, the Tigers aim
- Enhance Recruitment: Attract high-caliber athletes who can contribute to the team’s success.
- Improve Player Development: Utilize advanevaluation techniques to maximize player potential.
- Maintain Competitive Excellence: Ensure sustaineuess in collegiate football by building a robust and talented roster.
This strategic move igns with Clemson’sroader objectives of maintaining its status as a powerhouse in college football.
Conclusion
Welcoming Kevin Kelly as the Director of Player Evaluation & Acquisition marks a pivotal moment for Clemson Football. His extensive experience in NFL scouting and talent evaluation is expected to significantly contribute to the program’s ongoing pursuit of excellence. The Clemson community eagerly anticipates the positive impact Kelly will have on the Tigers’ future success.
For more information, please refer to the official announcement on Clemson Tigers’ website.