ESPN is predicting a big freshman season for Clemson defensive lineman Peter Woods.

Woods, who was a 5-star prospect in the class of 2023, is ESPN’s preseason pick to be Clemson’s top newcomer in 2023. On Monday, ESPN projected the top newcomer for each program in its way-too-early top 25.

Here’s some analysis on why Woods in the choice from ESPN’s Andrea Adelson:

The Tigers have been one of the best programs in the nation when it comes to recruiting and developing top tier talent on the defensive line. So that is why defensive lineman Peter Woods, the No. 4-ranked player in the ESPN 300 and the top-rated defensive player, will be one top newcomer to watch in 2023. With Bryan Bresee off to the NFL draft, there is an obvious need at defensive tackle. Clemson also loses ends K.J. Henry and Myles Murphy so there are plenty of open spots along the defensive front. Woods enrolled in January and should be competing for a starting spot when spring practice begins.

While most players on ESPN’s list come via the transfer portal, Clemson’s lack of additions in that area required ESPN to pick a player from the 2023 recruiting class.

Woods was Clemson’s top-ranked signee in the class of 2023. He’s the No. 33 overall player and the No. 3 defensive lineman in the country, per 247Sports Composite rankings.

Bryan Bresee’s departure also opens up plenty of opportunity for an emerging player like Woods. Tyler Davis and Ruke Orhorhoro do return as interior linemen for the Tigers, but Woods could still find his way onto the field early and often in 2023.

Woods was an early enrollee and will go through spring practice with the Tigers.