With ability to play across defensive line, Kobe Clayborne gives Jackrabbits plenty of options down stretch
In today’s positionless football landscape, players are required to take on multiple roles. Running backs are expected to catch passes, offensive linemen must adapt to tackle and guard positions, and safeties can step in as linebackers, while some cornerbacks even play wide receiver.
Having a versatile player on the field is always thrilling, but this versatility isn’t always as prevalent on the defensive line.
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits have a longstanding history of depth in their defensive line, frequently rotating players to maintain fresh legs in the trenches. However, when injuries arise, a versatile player can be invaluable, providing options for coaches to adjust their strategies.
For this year’s squad, that player has been Kobe Clayborne. A transfer from Northwest Missouri State, Clayborne has become a key component of the Jackrabbits’ defense, showcasing his ability to play multiple positions along the line.
“It’s been a game-changer,” said SDSU head coach Jimmy Rogers, noting Clayborne’s flexibility. “If a defensive tackle goes down, he can step in without a noticeable drop-off since he’s capable of playing either position.”
Clayborne’s football journey began at Bishop Helen High School in Sioux City, Iowa, where he played both offensive and defensive line, earning accolades as a two-time district lineman of the year and participating in the Iowa Shrine Bowl during his senior year. Alongside football, he was also a team captain and a two-time state placer in wrestling, finishing in fourth and sixth place.
“Wrestling is an essential sport for any offensive or defensive lineman outside of football,” Clayborne said. “It builds tough leverage, hand-fighting skills, and footwork, all of which translate well to football. I credit wrestling for helping develop my game.”
While Clayborne was making strides in high school, Rogers was the defensive coordinator for the Jacks, focused on recruiting in Northwest Iowa. Clayborne fit the defensive mold Rogers desired, but concerns about his 6-foot frame raised questions about his suitability at the FCS level.
This led Clayborne to begin his college career at Northwest Missouri State. After redshirting his first year, he played defensive end, tallying 22 tackles, including 5.5 for loss and four sacks. However, injuries forced him to shift inside for the 2023 season.
The transition proved successful, with Clayborne tying for the team lead in sacks with six while adding 28 tackles, 10 of which were for loss.
“I got moved in spring ball and just hit the ground running,” Clayborne noted. “I might not have the typical defensive end build, but the defense allowed me to excel regardless of size due to my quickness.”
Clayborne was honored with Second-Team All-MIAA recognition for his performance and caught the attention of SDSU once again.
“If you’re a standout player at any level, you can excel at any level,” Rogers expressed. “Many of the FCS All-Americans could play at the highest FBS levels, and that’s what we aim to highlight here with our All-Americans, especially as they transition to the NFL.”
After three years and earning his degree, Clayborne sought a new challenge. With Brookings being close to home, he decided to transfer to SDSU for his final two years.
“I achieved some great things there, but I always wanted to compete at the Division-I level,” Clayborne explained. “I aimed to challenge myself. I committed to four years, and with the COVID year extending my time in college, I felt it was smart to enter the transfer portal. South Dakota State was the perfect choice—close to home and with a successful program and great coaches.”
One of the key figures in Clayborne’s development was defensive line coach Jalon Bibbs, who recruited him as a defensive tackle but helped him refine his skills on the outside, allowing him to grow at both positions.
The impact was immediate as Clayborne participated in spring practices and continued through fall camp.
“From the start of camp, he seemed to be one of the most disruptive defensive linemen we had,” Rogers said. “The challenge was figuring out whether to place him at defensive tackle or defensive end.”
As seen in previous seasons, injuries on the team opened doors for Clayborne to contribute significantly. Throughout 11 games this season, he has displayed his versatility by playing across the defensive line, accumulating 24 tackles, including 3.5 for loss, and 2.5 sacks, along with a fumble recovery. He has become a dynamic asset for the Jackrabbits’ defense, reminiscent of former SDSU All-American Caleb Sanders.
“Although their styles are slightly different, Clayborne has a unique skill set,” Rogers said. “He has worked diligently to minimize errors when entering the game. He plays hard, earns respect from his teammates, and has been a tremendous asset to our program.”
Regardless of his position, Clayborne takes pride in stepping onto the field without any drop-off in performance, eager to utilize his versatility to bolster the Jackrabbits’ defense as the season progresses.
“I take pride in my ability to play various positions because it ultimately benefits the team,” Clayborne said. “Every opportunity to get on the field and contribute is what matters most. Being able to adapt provides the coaches with more options to solve the puzzle.”
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