Peter Woods will be facing major expectations when he suits up for the Tigers in 2023.

The 5-star defensive lineman could be the top freshman in the nation, according to one ESPN analyst. On Thursday, the World Wide Leader released a roundtable discussion regarding several different topics on the 2023 recruiting cycle.

ESPN’s Tom VanHaaren made the argument that Woods will be the top freshman in the country for 2023:

Woods could make a lot of noise at Clemson along the defensive line. He is a five-star defensive tackle at 6-3, 275 pounds and is exactly what Clemson looks for up front. He’s big, strong, fast and should contribute early in some way, especially with some of the departures up front for the Tigers (Bryan Bresee, Myles Murphy). Woods was highly sought-after and eventually could be a versatile lineman who can play in any defense.

Woods certainly has the pedigree to make such an impact. The Alabama native is the No. 33 overall player and the No. 3 defensive lineman in the country, per 247Sports Composite rankings.

There’s also going to be some opportunity opening on Clemson’s interior defensive line with Bryan Bresee opting to turn pro. However, Clemson does return fellow interior linemen Tyler Davis and Ruke Orhorhoro. If Woods does earn significant snaps, they’re likely to come in a reserve role behind that duo.

Clemson’s defensive line also returns Xavier Thomas on the edge. It’s projected to be a strength for the Tigers in 2023 despite losing Bresee and Myles Murphy to the draft.