Clemson Leads the Way as 7 ACC Stars Earn Spots on 2025 AP All-American Rosters
The Atlantic Coast Conference is once again shining brightly on the national stage, as seven of its top football players have been named to the prestigious 2025 Associated Press (AP) All-American teams. Among them, the Clemson Tigers stole the spotlight with a remarkable four selections, underlining the program’s continued dominance and talent development.
Headlining the group is Clemson quarterback Tyler Owens, who earned First-Team honors after a stellar junior campaign. Owens passed for over 4,000 yards with 38 touchdowns and just five interceptions, leading Clemson to an ACC Championship and a College Football Playoff berth. His poise, arm strength, and leadership made him an obvious choice for All-American recognition.
Joining Owens on the First Team is his teammate, defensive lineman Jalen Brooks, who terrorized opposing quarterbacks all season long. Brooks tallied 13.5 sacks and 21 tackles for loss, anchoring one of the most feared defenses in the country. His explosive first step and relentless motor have drawn comparisons to former Clemson greats now thriving in the NFL.
Two more Tigers were honored on the Second Team: wide receiver Keon Riley and cornerback Marcus Tillman. Riley was Owens’ top target, racking up 1,320 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns with a knack for making jaw-dropping catches in clutch moments. Tillman, meanwhile, was a lockdown presence in the secondary, finishing the year with six interceptions and 14 pass breakups.
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney was full of praise for his All-Americans. “These young men represent everything Clemson football stands for—hard work, character, and excellence on and off the field,” Swinney said. “I’m incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished.”
The ACC’s representation didn’t stop there. Florida State linebacker Jamal Hayes earned a spot on the Second Team following a breakout year in Tallahassee. Hayes led the ACC in tackles and was the emotional leader of a resurgent Seminoles defense.
Rounding out the ACC contingent were two Third-Team selections: North Carolina offensive lineman Carter Drake and Miami safety Elijah Barnes. Drake anchored the Tar Heels’ line with consistency and physicality, helping UNC finish among the top offenses in the conference. Barnes, a hard-hitting safety with elite instincts, recorded 89 tackles and three interceptions in a standout senior season.
The AP All-American honors are a testament to the ACC’s continued relevance in the national college football conversation. With Clemson leading the charge and other programs producing elite talent, the conference’s competitive edge is as sharp as ever.
As the 2025 season comes to a close, these seven athletes have not only cemented their place in ACC history but have also set the stage for bright futures—many of them likely in the NFL. For now, though, their achievements are being rightly celebrated across their campuses and fanbases.