Clemson football is setting the stage for an intriguing 2026 season, starting with spring practice on February 25. This period will feature 15 practices, including two scrimmages, leading up to the much-anticipated spring game on March 28 at Memorial Stadium.
After finishing 7-6 in 2025-Clemson's most challenging season since 2010-head coach Dabo Swinney has made sweeping changes. The Tigers missed both the ACC championship and the College Football Playoff, prompting Swinney to revamp his coaching staff and actively engage with the transfer portal to bolster the roster.
Coaching Changes:
Swinney's new lineup of coaches reflects a mix of fresh faces and familiar names. Chad Morris has been brought in as the offensive coordinator, replacing Garrett Riley.
On defense, Tom Allen takes charge as the coordinator and linebackers coach. Notably, former Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd has been promoted to quarterbacks coach, while C.J.
Spiller continues to guide the running backs.
Returning Starters:
Clemson retains key players like wide receivers Bryant Wesco Jr. and T.J. Moore, tight end Olsen Patt-Henry, and offensive lineman Harris Sewell. Defensively, the Tigers will rely on the prowess of Will Heldt on the edge and linebackers Sammy Brown and Jeremiah Alexander, among others.
Departures:
Significant departures include quarterback Cade Klubnik and running back Adam Randall. The offensive line also sees changes with the exits of Blake Miller and Tristan Leigh.
The defense will miss standouts like T.J. Parker and Peter Woods.
Transfer Portal Activity:
Clemson has been active in the transfer market, adding talents such as SMU running back Chris Johnson Jr. and Colorado defensive end London Merritt. The Tigers also secured defensive backs like Auburn's Donovan Starr and Penn State's Elliot Washington II.
Recruiting Class:
The 2026 recruiting class brings 22 high school players and one junior college recruit, ranked 20th nationally. The class features promising prospects like quarterbacks Brock Bradley and Tait Reynolds, alongside a strong group of wide receivers and linemen.
2026 Schedule:
Clemson kicks off the season on September 5 at LSU, followed by matchups against Georgia Southern and North Carolina. The schedule includes key conference games against Miami, Virginia Tech, and Florida State, closing with the traditional rivalry game against South Carolina.
As the Tigers prepare for spring practice, all eyes will be on how these changes translate on the field. With a blend of new coaching strategies and fresh talent, Clemson is poised to make a strong comeback in 2026.