Note: The following appears in the Virginia Tech football digital gameday guide, available HERE.
For Clemson defensive end C.J. Wesley, football has been the focus of his life for as long as he can remember. The West Orange, N.J. native’s love for football began with his family, as his stepfather and uncle played in the NFL, and his father played arena football.
Wesley spent his first four seasons at Howard, where he totaled 47 tackles, seven sacks, two caused fumbles and a recovered fumble.
Amidst his experience at multiple programs, Clemson stands out as special.
“Clemson has legit camaraderie and is a brotherhood. This is a place that wins and produces great athletes and great people, especially Coach (Dabo) Swinney.”
In 2026, Wesley’s mindset can best be described as “stay down.”
“I’m keeping my head down and working, no matter what’s going on in my life. I’m continuing to play how I play, and working while Clemson develops me into the person and player I want to be.”
Although Wesley has been a Tiger for less than a year, he has already learned important lessons in the program. One of the biggest lessons Clemson has taught #23 is to “truly work and love your brothers.”
“During the workouts we had this summer, I was more focused on myself. I didn’t expect to make friends or know people who would talk to me. But everyone was so accepting, which changed my mindset. And now everything I do is not just for me…it’s for the people who are next to me, putting in the work with me as well.”
Wesley pursued a bachelor’s degree in business while attending Howard, but as a Clemson student, he is working towards a degree in sociology. As for his future, it has always been a dream to continue his athletic career, and Wesley has his sights set on the NFL.
Outside of football, he wants to learn more about a career in the trade professions and is also interested in a career involving animal science. With a smile, Wesley said he loves animals and owns two python snakes, named Buttercup and Cookies, and a Cane Corso dog, named Blue.
Wesley’s passion in life is centered on his love for the sport of football.
“Before I can remember anything, football’s been there. That’s how I’ve always made friends.”
Football also serves as a major source of connection between him and his father. For Wesley, his passion for football has been a lifelong source of connection and purpose, continuing to shape his Clemson experience, both on and off the field.