Will Putnam Draft Networking Interview: 'I’m Going To Be The Whole Package' (Interviews)
Interviews

Will Putnam Draft Networking Interview: 'I’m Going To Be The Whole Package'

Ken Ruinard / staff / USA TODAY NETWORK
author image

Clemson offensive lineman Will Putnam is among the most battle-tested interior prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft. Putnam is a four-year starter at guard and center. Putnam played 3,564 snaps from scrimmage, the second-most in Clemson history while appearing in over 60 career games. NFL teams will appreciate Putnam’s versatility and experience on draft weekend.

Putnam recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network about his versatility, which position he sees himself playing at the next level, which NFL teams are showing interest in his services, and more.

JM: You depart Clemson with a ton of experience under your belt. You're a four-year starter and nearly set the all-time program record for snaps played (3,564). How do you think that experience will help you make an immediate contribution at the next level?

Will Putnam: I think there’s something to be said about having that much experience. Something I learned throughout my five years at Clemson is that you can practice and train as much as you want, but nothing compares to actual on-field experience.

When the fans pack the stadium and those lights come on, and you know there are millions of people watching at home,  it’s a different ballgame. You can’t replicate that in practice. You practice to equip yourself, but it’s not the same.

Being a guy that has a bunch of experience gives me a competitive advantage. It might help set me aside from some guys who don’t have the experience I have.

JM: That’s a great point. You’ve played a ton of guard and center throughout your career. Which position do you think you’ll primarily play in the NFL?

Will Putnam: I would probably lean toward the center position. That’s at least what I’ve heard from teams around the league. It’s a good thing that I have that versatility. I’ve played just as much guard as I have center if not more guard, actually.

Having that versatility is a great thing for me to have on my toolbelt. I’m obviously willing to play all three interior positions. Having played center these past two seasons, I really enjoyed snapping the ball and every other responsibility that comes at that spot.

JM: What’s at the forefront of Will Putnam’s skill set? Is it physicality, or athleticism?

Will Putnam: I think it’s more so physicality. I’m a football player, a football guy first and foremost. Athleticism is great at the end of the day, but being physical is also great. That’s what you really want. A football game isn’t just one play.

I’ve played games where I played more than 100 snaps. Once you get those first 60 snaps, it’s really about who’s more physical and who wants it more. Who’s willing to grind it out and do whatever it takes to move the ball, to get that first down or touchdown? 

That’s when I shine. I shine when it’s play 80 or 90 out of 100. We’re running tempo and we need to run a 20-play drive down the field the old-school way by gaining four yards per carry. That’s when my skill set shows up. That’s when I feel most comfortable.

I want to be pushed to my limits. I fully believe when you’re prepared to put the work in, it’s okay to exhaust yourself because you know you’re better than your opponent. I’m most comfortable when on the field playing a long football game. It’s about putting together full drives, full games.

JM: I love that answer. Sticking with this topic, what was your favorite play to run in the Clemson playbook?

Will Putnam: I love inside zone. It’s definitely my favorite. There’s a lot you can take away from that. I love doing the split-zone stuff. It holds the linebackers a little bit. Overall, inside zone is my favorite. I love outside zone as well. I guess you can say I love running the ball (laughs).

JM: Have you met with any NFL teams throughout this process, whether in person at Pro Day through 30 visits, or virtually through Zoom?

Will Putnam: I’ve been in contact with multiple teams. I prefer to keep the details private at this time out of respect to the teams. I’ll say this. I’ve met with teams where the weather is really hot, and teams where the weather is really cold (laughs). I’m excited to meet with a few more teams in the coming weeks. I have some visits set up as well.

JM: That’s awesome. We’ve appreciated your time. What kind of impact is Will Putnam going to make at the next level?

Will Putnam: I think I’m going to be a great team-first guy. I can be whatever the organization needs me to be. I’m both moldable and coachable. I’m going to play multiple positions. I’m a great teammate in the locker room. I want to be involved in the community as well.

I’m going to be the whole package. I’m going to do whatever you need me to do and more. I’m always prepared. I take great care of my body; I’m always in excellent shape. No matter where this process takes me, I don’t have any regrets.



Loading...
Privacy Policy

© Copyright 2025 The Draft Network