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Clemson running back Keith Adams Jr. is leaving the football program. The fourth-year player blasted the coaching staff on his way out the door.
Adams says he was not properly utilized as a weapon in the Tigers‘ offense. He’s chosen to take his talents to a new school that will appreciate his skillset.
I was not used the right way at my previous school and have proven multiple times that I am worthy to play. I have 1 more year of eligibility and I plan on making a huge impact on wherever I go. I guarantee I’ll be the hardest running back to tackle in college football. pic.twitter.com/R7dmilaEE6
— Keith Adams Jr. (@keithadamsjr3) December 28, 2025
Who is Keith Adams Jr.?
The running back was a three-star prospect in the 2022 recruiting class. He initially played his high school football in Georgia before transferring to Pine View in Utah ahead of his senior year.
Adams chose the Tigers over the likes of South Florida, Georgia Southern, Marshall, Troy, and Middle Tennessee. Clemson was his only FBS scholarship opportunity. His family’s history with the program might’ve opened that door.
Keith Adams Sr. is in the university’s athletic Hall of Fame. A former Clemson linebacker, he set a single-season school record for tackles in 1999.
His son opted to continue the legacy. Unfortunately, he was unable to blossom into a star.
Adams Jr. played in 32 games across four seasons. He totaled 274 yards and two touchdowns on 58 carries. This year, his usage saw a steep decline.
As a sophomore, he logged 30 attempts, turning them into 122 yards. This year, his carries were cut by more than 50%.
His most impressive game of the year came in a win over Boston College. Adams ran for 49 yards and a score on seven touches. That equaled the seven rushes recorded in the Tigers’ other 11 games.
The tailback was not happy with his usage.
I was not used the right way at my previous school and have proven multiple times that I am worthy to play. I have 1 more year of eligibility and I plan on making a huge impact on wherever I go. I guarantee I’ll be the hardest running back to tackle in college football.
Adams redshirted as a freshman, giving him one more year to compete at the college level. He’ll do so with another program.
Adams announced his decision to transfer in early December. A few weeks later, he chose to blast the coaching staff while posting a highlight reel.
The ball carrier believes he had the talent to compete in the Tigers’ running back room. He was not given the opportunity to unseat converted wide receiver Adam Randall.
Clemson’s rushing attack was subpar in 2025, ranking 11th in the ACC in yardage. It averaged less than four yards per attempt.
Dabo Swinney received criticism earlier in the year for his supposed mismanagement of the position group. Some didn’t believe the best players were on the field.
Keith Adams Jr. can be added to that list of critics. He’s burning the bridge as he exits the program.