Jaelyn Lay, a former tight end for the Clemson Tigers, has officially announced his declaration for the 2025 NFL Draft, setting the stage for the next phase of his football career.
Lay, who played for Clemson from 2019 to 2021, took to social media on Sunday evening to make his announcement. “With the conclusion of my eligibility, I am excited to announce that I am declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft,” Lay shared with his followers.
Throughout his three seasons at Clemson, Lay participated in 19 games, registering two receptions for 25 yards. He also contributed on the field with 149 career snaps. Off the field, Lay distinguished himself academically, earning recognition as a two-time ACC Honor Roll selection.
After leaving Clemson, Lay transferred to Alabama State, where he played for two seasons. During his time with the Hornets, he accumulated seven receptions for 75 yards across 17 games. Following his stint at Alabama State, Lay moved on to the University of Massachusetts (UMass) for the 2024 season, where he played as a graduate transfer. At UMass, he recorded two catches for 17 yards in 10 games for the Minutemen.
In his announcement regarding the draft, Lay took a moment to express his gratitude to the institutions that had shaped him both on and off the field. He thanked Clemson, Alabama State, and UMass for the opportunities they provided in helping him grow as both a person and a student-athlete. “These institutions have allowed me to grow as a man, excel academically, earn prestigious bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and, most importantly, play the game I love,” Lay wrote. He also offered thanks to his coaches, family, and teammates for their constant support throughout his journey.
Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Lay entered college as one of the top tight end prospects in the country. While attending Riverdale High School, he garnered attention from major recruiting outlets, including ESPN and Rivals, earning high rankings as a top prospect. Now, with the next step in his journey ahead, Lay is eager to showcase his skills on the NFL stage.
