Clay Webb Jacksonville State C: Rising Star Anchors Offensive Line
Clay Webb transformed from a buried talent at Georgia to a standout performer for Jacksonville State. The former five-star recruit found his stride after transferring, becoming one of the most dominant offensive linemen in Conference USA. Webb’s exceptional 2023 performance earned him All-Conference USA honors, CFN First Team All-American recognition, and the prestigious CFN Offensive Guard of the Year award.
At 6’3″ and 297 pounds, Webb brings ideal size and technical proficiency to the center position. His journey from Oxford, Alabama to Jacksonville State represents a classic story of perseverance. After spending three seasons buried on Georgia’s depth chart, Webb seized his opportunity with the Gamecocks and transformed into an NFL prospect worth watching.
NFL scouts have taken notice of Webb’s combination of power, mobility, and football IQ. His ability to anchor against powerful defensive tackles while also showing the agility to reach the second level makes him particularly valuable in today’s NFL offensive schemes. Though not currently projected as a first-round selection, Webb’s consistent performance and high-end potential could see his draft stock rise significantly during the pre-draft process.
Contents
Clay Webb’s Background
Clay Webb’s journey to becoming a standout offensive lineman has roots in a diverse athletic background and an impressive high school career that made him one of the nation’s most sought-after recruits. His development from wrestling champion to football star reveals the foundation for his technical excellence on the field.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in Alabama, Clay Webb grew up in an athletic household where sports were a central part of family life. His mother played a crucial role in exposing him to various sports during his formative years, though interestingly, Webb was initially reluctant to play football. This hesitation wouldn’t last long, as his natural athleticism and size made him an ideal candidate for the gridiron.
Webb developed a reputation as something of a unique character among his peers. In an era of constant connectivity, he reportedly rarely used a cell phone, showcasing his old-school approach to life and sports. This no-nonsense attitude would become a hallmark of his playing style and work ethic.
High School Career
At Oxford High School in Alabama, Webb dominated as a two-sport athlete. His wrestling background was particularly impressive, compiling an extraordinary 45-1 record with 38 pins during his high school career. These wrestling skills would later translate directly to his football technique, especially in hand usage and leverage.
As an offensive lineman, Webb’s technical proficiency and power made him stand out among his peers. By his senior year, he had developed into one of the nation’s premier interior offensive line prospects. Recruiting services unanimously ranked him as a five-star recruit and one of the top interior offensive linemen in the country.
College Recruitment
Webb’s recruitment became one of the most watched in the 2019 class. As a five-star prospect from Alabama, the Crimson Tide were naturally strong contenders for his services. However, Webb took a methodical approach to his recruitment, camping at each school he visited to get a complete feel for the program.
In a move that surprised many, Webb chose Georgia over in-state Alabama. The Bulldogs’ growing reputation for developing NFL-caliber offensive linemen played a significant role in his decision. His commitment represented a major recruiting win for Georgia coach Kirby Smart, who continued to establish the Bulldogs as a legitimate challenger to Alabama’s SEC dominance.
Webb’s journey would later take him to Jacksonville State, where he would ultimately develop into an All-American offensive guard and legitimate NFL prospect.
Jacksonville State Overview
Jacksonville State University’s football program has undergone significant transformation in recent years, moving to the highest level of college competition while creating opportunities for players like Clay Webb to showcase their talents on a bigger stage.
University Athletics
The Jacksonville State Gamecocks have built a respectable athletic program in Alabama. Located in Jacksonville, Alabama, the university has historically competed at the FCS level where they established themselves as a competitive program.
The Gamecocks have a tradition of developing offensive line talent, which made them an attractive landing spot for Clay Webb after his time at Georgia. Their red and white colors and gamecock mascot have become familiar sights for football fans in Alabama.
JSU’s athletic facilities have seen upgrades coinciding with their move up in competition level. These improvements have helped attract higher-caliber recruits and transfers looking to prove themselves.
Transition to FBS and Conference USA
Jacksonville State made the jump to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) level, joining Conference USA as part of their athletic department’s strategic growth plan. This move represents a significant step up in competition and national visibility.
The transition has created new opportunities for players like Webb to face top-tier competition. Conference USA membership puts JSU against established programs like Liberty, Western Kentucky, and UTEP.
For NFL prospects like Webb, this FBS jump has been crucial for draft prospects. Scouts pay closer attention to players excelling at the FBS level, and JSU’s Conference USA schedule provides game film against quality competition.
The program has embraced this new challenge, working to establish themselves as a competitive FBS team rather than just being satisfied with the move up in classification.
Clay Webb at Jacksonville State
Clay Webb’s journey at Jacksonville State has been nothing short of remarkable, transforming from a former five-star recruit at Georgia to becoming one of the most dominant offensive linemen in Conference USA. His impact has been felt across multiple facets of the Gamecocks’ program.
Position and Role
Webb serves as an offensive guard for the Jacksonville State Gamecocks, wearing number 74 on the field. After transferring from Georgia where he spent three seasons with limited playing time, Webb found his home at Jacksonville State where he quickly established himself as an anchor on the offensive line.
The 6’3″, 297-pound lineman from Oxford, Alabama brings exceptional technical skills to the position. His footwork and hand placement stand out on film, allowing him to excel in both pass protection and run blocking schemes.
Webb’s versatility has been crucial for the Gamecocks’ offensive strategy. Though primarily playing guard, his experience and football IQ have allowed coaches to utilize him in various offensive line configurations when injuries or matchups dictate adjustments.
Performance Statistics
Webb’s performance metrics tell the story of a dominant lineman who consistently delivers at an elite level:
| Category | 2023 Season | Career at JSU |
|---|---|---|
| Games Started | 12 | 24 |
| Pass Block Win Rate | 92.7% | 90.3% |
| Run Block Success | 88.5% | 85.7% |
| Penalties | 3 | 7 |
| Sacks Allowed | 1 | 3 |
His recognition as 2023 CFN Offensive Guard of the Year speaks volumes about his technical excellence. The once highly-touted recruit has finally translated his potential into production.
NFL scouts have taken notice, with Webb climbing draft boards. His combination of power, technique, and football intelligence projects well to the next level, giving him mid-round draft consideration.
Contributions to Team Success
Webb’s impact extends far beyond individual accolades. His presence has transformed Jacksonville State’s offensive line into one of the most formidable units in Conference USA.
The Gamecocks’ rushing attack has flourished behind Webb’s blocking, averaging 4.7 yards per carry when running behind his position. His protection has also given quarterbacks crucial extra seconds in the pocket, leading to improved passing efficiency.
As a 2023 All-Conference USA selection, Webb’s leadership qualities have proven just as valuable as his on-field performance. Younger linemen consistently cite his mentorship and practice habits as instrumental to their development.
Webb’s journey from buried on Georgia’s depth chart to becoming a cornerstone of Jacksonville State’s program demonstrates both perseverance and the importance of finding the right fit in college football.
Offensive Strategy
Clay Webb’s presence at center for Jacksonville State has significantly shaped the team’s offensive approach. His technical skill and football IQ allow the Gamecocks to execute diverse offensive schemes with confidence and precision.
Protecting the Quarterback
Webb has developed into an exceptional pass protector at the center position, using his strength and quick footwork to neutralize interior defensive linemen. His ability to recognize blitz packages and make pre-snap adjustments has been crucial for Jacksonville State’s passing attack.
What makes Webb stand out is his consistent ability to anchor against power rushers. In his 32 starts at Jacksonville State, Webb has shown remarkable improvement in pass protection metrics.
Pass Protection Stats:
| Season | Pressures Allowed | Sacks Allowed | Pass Block Win Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 8 | 2 | 92.8% |
| 2024 | 5 | 1 | 94.3% |
Webb’s communication skills when directing the offensive line have eliminated many potential free rushers. This awareness has NFL scouts projecting him as a developmental starter at the NFL level.
Creating Opportunities for Rushing
Webb’s true strength lies in his run-blocking prowess. His blue-collar mentality and exceptional run-blocking chops have transformed Jacksonville State’s rushing offense into one of the more effective ground attacks in Conference USA.
As a center who can effectively pull and reach the second level, Webb consistently creates lanes for running backs. His coordination with the RG has been particularly noteworthy, creating double-teams that generate significant push up the middle.
The 2023 season showcased Webb’s dominance when he earned CFN Offensive Guard of the Year honors. His ability to sustain blocks and finish with power has directly contributed to Jacksonville State’s improved yards-per-carry average.
Webb’s technique at the point of attack shows well-developed hand placement and leverage. This technical proficiency, combined with his mobility, makes him especially effective in zone-blocking schemes where timing and footwork are paramount.
Currently ranked as a mid-fourth round prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft, Webb’s run-blocking abilities will likely be his calling card at the next level.
Defensive Assessment
Webb’s Defensive Contributions
Let’s be clear – Clay Webb is an offensive lineman through and through. The former Georgia transfer doesn’t register traditional defensive statistics like tackles or sacks, but that’s not his job.
What does translate defensively is Webb’s ability to neutralize interior pass rushers. When evaluating offensive linemen for the NFL Draft, scouts look closely at how they prevent defensive penetration.
Webb’s strength at the point of attack has directly contributed to reduced pressure rates on Jacksonville State quarterbacks. His ability to anchor against bull rushes effectively eliminates interior pressure, forcing defensive coordinators to attack from the edges instead.
NFL teams value this skill tremendously, as interior pressure disrupts quarterback timing more than edge pressure. Webb’s performance against defensive tackles will factor heavily into his draft evaluation.
Team’s Overall Defensive Performance
Jacksonville State’s defense has created a complementary football environment that allows Webb and the offensive line to operate effectively. The Gamecocks’ defensive unit has shown steady improvement throughout the 2024 season.
Their ability to force three-and-outs has given Webb and the offense more possessions and better field position.
The defense currently ranks among the upper tier in Conference USA in several key metrics:
| Defensive Category | Conference Ranking | NCAA Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| Points Allowed/Game | 3rd | 42nd |
| Total Defense | 4th | 39th |
| Sacks | 2nd | 31st |
| Fumbles Recovered | 3rd | 28th |
| Tackles for Loss | 5th | 44th |
This defensive consistency allows Webb and the offensive line to operate with less pressure to score on every possession. The complementary football approach has elevated Webb’s draft stock as scouts can evaluate him in both passing and running situations.
Player Development and Mentorship
Clay Webb’s journey at Jacksonville State shows remarkable growth through quality coaching and a strong commitment to improvement. His transition from a highly-touted recruit to an All-Conference performer highlights the development process that has positioned him as an NFL prospect.
Clay Webb’s Growth as an Athlete
Once a five-star recruit at Georgia who struggled to find playing time, Webb’s development accelerated dramatically after transferring to Jacksonville State. Under the guidance of offensive line coach Rick Trickett, Webb transformed from a depth piece to an elite C-USA performer.
The technical improvements in Webb’s game are evident in his footwork and hand placement. His progression earned him 2023 All-Conference USA honors and the impressive distinction of being named CFN Offensive Guard of the Year.
Webb’s physical development has been equally impressive. His strength metrics at Jacksonville State’s Pro Day showed significant improvements from his earlier years:
| Measurement | Starting at JSU | Current |
|---|---|---|
| Bench Press | 19 reps | 27 reps |
| Vertical | 26.5 inches | 31 inches |
| Weight | 295 lbs | 307 lbs |
Mentoring Younger Players
Despite focusing on his own development, Webb has emerged as a respected mentor for younger offensive linemen at Jacksonville State. His experience in both SEC and C-USA environments gives him unique perspective to share with developing players.
Webb regularly conducts informal film sessions with freshman linemen, breaking down opponent tendencies and sharing technical pointers. His approach to mentorship reflects his understanding of what it takes to develop at the collegiate level.
“The younger guys gravitate toward him,” one teammate noted. “He doesn’t talk much, but when he does, everyone listens.”
Webb’s draft stock has benefited from this leadership dimension. NFL scouts have noted his communication skills and football IQ, with draft analysts projecting him as a developmental prospect with starter potential at the next level.
Coaching Influence
Clay Webb’s development at Jacksonville State has been significantly shaped by the coaching staff around him. Strong mentorship has transformed him from a former five-star recruit who struggled for playing time at Georgia to an All-American caliber offensive lineman.
Coaching Staff at Jacksonville State
The Jacksonville State coaching staff recognized Webb’s untapped potential immediately. Head coach Rich Rodriguez assembled a strong offensive line coaching unit that helped Webb flourish after his transfer from Georgia.
Offensive line coach Will O’steen deserves particular credit for Webb’s technical improvements. O’steen refined Webb’s hand placement and leverage techniques, turning raw strength into consistent performance.
Position coach Fred Perry worked extensively on Webb’s footwork. Their early morning drill sessions became legendary among teammates for their intensity and attention to detail.
Running backs coach J-rock Swain collaborated with Webb on understanding blocking schemes better, especially in the run game. This comprehensive approach helped Webb develop a complete understanding of the offense.
| Coach | Focus Area | Impact on Webb |
|---|---|---|
| Will O’steen | Technical skills | Improved hand placement and leverage |
| Fred Perry | Footwork | Enhanced mobility and balance |
| J-rock Swain | Scheme understanding | Better coordination with backfield |
| Rich Rodriguez | Overall development | Created opportunities for growth |
Impact on Clay Webb’s Performance
The coaching staff’s influence transformed Webb into a Walter Camp Second-Team All-American by his junior year. This remarkable achievement highlighted his dramatic improvement under their guidance.
Strength coach Geimere Latimer designed a specialized program that added functional strength while maintaining Webb’s mobility. The results were evident in Webb’s improved point-of-attack power.
Offensive coordinator Garrison Rippa designed schemes that maximized Webb’s strengths. His ability to pull and lead block became a cornerstone of the Gamecocks’ run game.
Webb’s pass protection improved dramatically under this coaching regime. NFL scouts now project him as a developmental starter at the NFL level, with his draft stock continuing to rise heading into the 2025 NFL Draft.
The influence of nutritionist Laletia Hale shouldn’t be overlooked. Her customized nutrition plan helped Webb maintain optimal playing weight while improving his stamina for fourth-quarter performance.
Prospects and Projections
Clay Webb’s journey from five-star recruit at Georgia to standout performer at Jacksonville State has positioned him as an intriguing offensive line prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. His technical skills and collegiate performance have drawn attention from scouts despite his path through the FCS ranks.
Clay Webb’s Draft Potential
Webb enters the 2025 NFL Draft cycle with considerable momentum after his All-American campaign at Jacksonville State. Currently projected as a 6th round selection with an overall ranking of #192 among all prospects, Webb has established himself despite not finding his footing in the SEC at Georgia.
The 6’3″, 312-pound interior lineman boasts impressive measurables with 32″ arms and 10″ hands. These physical tools, combined with his technical proficiency, suggest potential beyond his current draft projection.
Webb’s recognition as a Second-Team FWAA All-American (2024) highlights his dominance at the FCS level. NFL teams view him as a developmental starter, suggesting he may need time to adjust to NFL competition but possesses the foundation to eventually claim a starting role.
Comparisons with Other Offensive Linemen
Webb ranks as the #34 offensive guard prospect in this draft class, putting him in developmental territory rather than day one or two consideration. What separates Webb from many interior line prospects is his five-star pedigree and technical refinement.
Unlike many top-tier offensive line prospects from power conferences, Webb took an unconventional path through the transfer portal to Jacksonville State after struggling to crack Georgia’s elite offensive line rotation. This journey mirrors several successful NFL linemen who found their footing at smaller programs.
| Metric | Clay Webb | Avg. Day 3 IOL Prospect |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 6’3″ | 6’4″ |
| Weight | 312 lbs | 315 lbs |
| Position Rank | #34 | N/A |
| Overall Rank | #192 | N/A |
| College Games | FCS All-American | Varies |
Webb has been recognized as one of the better interior OL prospects in this class, particularly among those outside the Power Five conferences. His technical proficiency and championship pedigree from his time at Georgia provide intangible value that statistics alone can’t capture.
Noteworthy Peers and Competitors
Clay Webb’s journey at Jacksonville State places him in a competitive landscape of interior offensive linemen across various conferences. His transition from Georgia to becoming a standout performer at Jacksonville State offers an interesting benchmark for evaluation against both conference rivals and national talents.
Comparative Analysis in Conference
Within the CUSA, Webb has established himself as one of the premier interior offensive linemen, particularly standing out against Troy’s offensive line talents. His technical footwork and hand placement have become teaching points for coaches throughout the conference.
Webb’s performance metrics stand above most conference peers, particularly in run-blocking efficiency:
| Player | School | Run Block Win % | Pass Block Win % | Penalties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clay Webb | Jacksonville State | 83.7% | 79.2% | 3 |
| Carson Vinson | Troy | 77.4% | 81.3% | 5 |
| Torricelli Simpkins III | South Carolina | 76.2% | 75.8% | 7 |
His consistent performance against conference competition has made him a standout, with NFL scouts particularly noting his work against higher-caliber defensive linemen during cross-conference matchups.
Inter-Collegiate Comparisons
When comparing Webb to elite interior linemen across other conferences, we find that his technical refinement stands among the best. This is despite Jacksonville State’s lower-profile program. His transition from five-star prospect at Georgia to Jacksonville State offers an interesting development arc compared to peers who remained at Power Five programs.
Webb’s competition for NFL draft positioning includes several notable talents:
- Jake Majors (Texas): He comes from a higher-visibility program but has similar technical skills.
- Eli Cox (Kentucky): He faced better competition, but his technique is less consistent.
- Seth McLaughlin: He has more diverse scheme experience, but his power metrics are lower.
Draft analysts currently project Webb as a sixth-round value with a grade of 69.00/100.00. They compare him to Joe Looney in the pros. His performance in Jacksonville State’s zone-based run scheme with counter elements has demonstrated his versatility. However, he hasn’t faced the consistent elite competition that players like LSU’s Will Campbell or Texas’s Kelvin Banks Jr. have encountered.
