From Pick-Six Hero to Pro Prospect: Clemson’s Page Signs with NFL Team as Fifth Tiger in 2024 Class to Go Pro

CLEMSON, S.C. — It only takes one moment to alter the trajectory of a football career. For Clemson defensive standout R.J. Page, that moment came on a crisp October afternoon in Death Valley, when he read the eyes of an opposing quarterback, broke on a short crossing route, snagged the football out of the air, and sprinted untouched for a pick-six that sent Memorial Stadium into a frenzy.

That 42-yard interception return for a touchdown against NC State wasn’t just a highlight-reel play—it was a symbolic coming-of-age moment for a player who had quietly put together one of the more complete seasons in a loaded Clemson defense. Now, just months later, Page is reaping the rewards of his breakout campaign: signing an NFL contract as the fifth Clemson player from the 2024 class to make the leap to professional football.

The Tigers have long been a pipeline for NFL talent, and Page’s emergence in 2024 as a playmaker only reinforces the program’s reputation for developing players who are ready for the next level. But his story, unlike that of some blue-chip five-star recruits, is one defined by perseverance, steady growth, and taking advantage of every opportunity.

Coming into the 2024 season, Page wasn’t necessarily the most talked-about name on Clemson’s defense. That distinction belonged to edge rushers and returning stars with more established resumes. Page, a junior hybrid linebacker-safety with elite athleticism and football IQ, had shown flashes in 2023 but was still considered a rotational piece.

However, Clemson’s coaching staff—led by defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin—had quietly seen his potential. Page impressed throughout spring practice with his coverage instincts and tackling ability in space. By fall camp, he was penciled into several sub-packages and quickly earned a more prominent role.

“He just kept making plays,” said head coach Dabo Swinney during a midseason press conference. “Sometimes the light just comes on for a guy, and when it does, it’s hard to keep him off the field. That’s what happened with Page. He became a leader in the back end for us.”

Page finished the 2024 season with 32 total tackles, two tackles for loss, one forced fumble, and the aforementioned interception return touchdown. More importantly, he was a stabilizing force in Clemson’s nickel and dime packages, often lined up against athletic tight ends or slot receivers.

He wasn’t the flashiest player on the field, but his consistent play and ability to anticipate routes made him a favorite among position coaches. His cerebral approach to the game earned praise from Clemson’s staff, with safeties coach Mickey Conn calling him “one of the smartest defenders we’ve had come through here in a while.”

Scouts took notice as well. Though Page wasn’t projected as a high draft pick, he earned a late-round grade and received several invites to private workouts and minicamps following the NFL Combine. Ultimately, it was a strong pro day performance in Clemson that sealed his professional fate.

“He ran well, looked smooth in drills, and showed good hips,” said an NFC scout in attendance. “For teams looking for a special teams contributor and developmental safety or WILL linebacker, he checks a lot of boxes.”

Page didn’t hear his name called during the seven rounds of the NFL Draft, but that didn’t dampen his spirits. Within minutes of the draft’s conclusion, his phone rang with multiple offers from teams interested in bringing him in as a priority free agent. After weighing his options, Page signed with the Tennessee Titans, a team with a reputation for developing defensive versatility under new head coach Brian Callahan.

“It just felt like the right fit,” Page said in a statement. “I talked with Coach Callahan and the DB coach, and they made it clear how they saw me fitting into their system. That meant a lot.”

Page becomes the fifth member of Clemson’s 2024 class to sign with an NFL team, joining:

• Jeremiah Trotter Jr., linebacker – 2nd Round pick by the New Orleans Saints
• Tyler Davis, defensive tackle – 4th Round pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars
• Barrett Carter, linebacker – 5th Round pick by the New York Giants
• Nate Wiggins, cornerback – 1st Round pick by the Detroit Lions

Though he went undrafted, Page’s presence among these names underscores the talent that Clemson continues to produce. NFL teams don’t just look at production—they evaluate adaptability, coachability, and football IQ. Page has all three.

Page’s journey is emblematic of the broader identity that Clemson has carved out over the last decade: tough, disciplined, and NFL-ready defenders who may not always grab headlines but consistently carve out long professional careers. Names like A.J. Terrell, Isaiah Simmons, Andrew Booth, and Trayvon Mullen helped build the blueprint for defensive success, and Page hopes to follow in their footsteps.

“You come to Clemson because you want to compete against the best and prepare for the league,” Page said during Senior Day. “Everything here—from the weight room to film study—is designed to push you. I’m grateful for every rep I got.”

That mentality served him well, especially when it became clear that he wouldn’t be a surefire draft pick. Rather than pout or panic, Page doubled down, treating every moment—from bowl practices to team interviews—as a chance to prove himself. That underdog edge could be what ultimately keeps him on an NFL roster come Week 1.

In Tennessee, Page will be entering a depth chart that includes young safeties like Amani Hooker and Elijah Molden, along with several hybrid defenders vying for playing time. But with NFL defenses relying more on positional flexibility, there’s a path for Page to make an immediate impact on special teams and eventually work into defensive packages.

“He’s going to be a core-four special teams guy early on,” said an AFC personnel executive familiar with the Titans’ plan. “But if he continues to develop, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him playing a third-down role by midseason.”

That’s not a guarantee, but it’s an opportunity—and that’s all Page needs. His discipline, intelligence, and willingness to play multiple positions give him a fighting chance in a league where roles are increasingly fluid.

Page’s signing also reflects the continued strength of Clemson’s developmental program. Despite missing the College Football Playoff again in 2024, the Tigers sent five defenders to the NFL—an accomplishment that few programs can match. Even amid questions about Clemson’s offensive production or recruiting reach, the defense remains a bastion of elite performance and pro readiness.

For Coach Swinney, that pipeline is something he takes pride in.

“We don’t just coach football here—we coach young men into professionals, on and off the field,” Swinney said. “Page is a perfect example. He didn’t start out as a superstar. He worked, learned, and earned everything he got.”

With more Tigers poised to make the jump in 2025—including potential first-round defensive end T.J. Parker—Clemson shows no signs of slowing down. If anything, Page’s story could serve as a motivating blueprint for future Tigers on the fringe.

The NFL is full of long shots, and R.J. Page is well aware of the odds. But he also knows what it’s like to beat them. From an overlooked recruit to a pick-six star in Death Valley, from undrafted free agent to NFL signee, Page’s journey is proof that impact isn’t just measured in draft capital—it’s measured in resilience.

“None of this was guaranteed,” he said. “I had to earn everything. But that’s what makes it so sweet.”

As training camp looms, Page will enter his first NFL offseason with the same mindset that carried him through Clemson: stay ready, stay sharp, and outwork the man next to you. Whether he makes the 53-man roster, lands on the practice squad, or becomes the next special teams star, one thing’s for certain—Page’s next chapter is just beginning.

And Clemson will be watching, proud of yet another Tiger chasing NFL glory.