Clelin Ferrell Bio
Clelin Ferrell is an American professional football defensive end for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Clemson Tigers, winning the 2018 Ted Hendricks Award, and was selected fourth overall by the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2019 NFL draft. Ferrell has also played for the Los Angeles Chargers and Washington Commanders.
Early Life and Background
Clelin Ferrell was born on May 17, 1997, in Richmond, Virginia. He attended Benedictine College Preparatory, a private military academy in Richmond. Ferrell committed to play college football at Clemson nearly three months before he tore his ACL, which caused him to miss his senior football season. This injury did not deter him from pursuing his football career, as he continued to develop his skills and prepare for college football.
Path to American Football
At Clemson, Ferrell suffered a hand injury that forced him to redshirt the 2015 season. He returned the following season and was named co-defensive rookie of the year alongside Dexter Lawrence after recording 50 tackles, 12.5 for loss, and six sacks. Ferrell’s performance continued to improve, and he was named first-team All-American in 2017. In 2018, he won the Ted Hendricks Award and was named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year after leading the conference in sacks and tackles for loss. Following this successful season, he declared for the 2019 NFL draft.
Clelin Ferrell Career
Early Career (2019–2022)
Clelin Ferrell was selected by the Oakland Raiders fourth overall in the 2019 NFL draft. This selection was met with widespread criticism, as many analysts believed he was a late first-round or early second-round pick. On June 18, 2019, Ferrell signed a four-year rookie contract worth a fully guaranteed $31.2 million, including a $20.8 million signing bonus. He made his NFL debut in Week 1 against the Denver Broncos, recording three tackles and his first sack on Joe Flacco. In Week 10 against the Los Angeles Chargers, he recorded eight tackles and sacked Philip Rivers 2.5 times. Ferrell finished his rookie season with 27 tackles, two sacks, and two forced fumbles.
Breakthrough (2023)
On March 16, 2023, Ferrell signed a one-year contract with the San Francisco 49ers. He recorded his first forced fumble as a 49er in a Week 8 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, during which he also recorded his first half sack for the team. The following week, he achieved his first full sack in a victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Ferrell started in all 17 regular season games in the 2023 season, finishing with 3.5 sacks and 28 total tackles.
Notable Works and Milestones
Clelin Ferrell’s signature achievements include being a two-time CFP national champion and winning the Ted Hendricks Award in 2018. He has also been recognized as a Consensus All-American and the ACC Defensive Player of the Year.
Clelin Ferrell Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Clelin Ferrell has received several notable nominations and awards, including multiple All-American and All-ACC honors during his college career.
Clelin Ferrell Awards Won
Clelin Ferrell has won several awards, including the Ted Hendricks Award in 2018, and has been recognized as a two-time CFP national champion in 2016 and 2018.
Clelin Ferrell Family
Clelin Ferrell comes from a military family, with both of his parents serving in the U.S. military. He has four brothers and four sisters, all at least ten years older than him. Tragically, his father, Cleavester, passed away from cancer in March 2012.
Personal Life
While details about Clelin Ferrell’s personal life are limited, it is known that he has experienced significant family challenges, including the loss of his father at a young age. He remains focused on his football career and continues to contribute to his team on and off the field.
