Clemson Football 2026: A New-Look Roster Gears Up for the Spring
With the transfer portal window officially closed and the 2026 season creeping closer, the Clemson Tigers are starting to take shape. Head coach Dabo Swinney and his staff are piecing together a roster that blends returning veterans, high-upside recruits, and key transfers. As we head into spring camp, it’s clear this team is entering a new era - and there’s no shortage of storylines to watch across the depth chart.
Quarterback: Vizzina’s Time to Shine?
With Cade Klubnik off to chase his NFL dreams, the quarterback room is officially up for grabs - but all signs point to Christopher Vizzina stepping into the spotlight. The former blue-chip recruit has been waiting in the wings, and now he gets his shot to lead the Tigers' offense.
He won’t go unchallenged, though. Freshmen Tait Reynolds and Brock Bradley are on campus and eager to make their mark, and Chris Denson is still very much in the mix.
But Vizzina’s experience gives him the early edge. The question now is whether he can translate that into consistent production - and leadership - on the field.
Running Back: A Wide-Open Race with Haynes Back in the Fold
Last season’s backfield was hit hard by injuries and attrition. Jay Haynes missed most of 2024 with an ACL injury, and with Adam Randall graduating and Keith Adams Jr. transferring, the position is wide open heading into spring.
Haynes’ return is a major boost - he showed flashes before the injury and could be a difference-maker if he’s back to full speed. But he’ll have to fend off a hungry group that includes promising young backs Gideon Davidson and David Eziomume.
And don’t overlook Chris Johnson Jr., the SMU transfer with game-breaking speed. This group has talent - now it’s about finding the right rotation.
Wide Receivers: Moore, Wesco Jr. Lead a Dynamic Group
The Tigers’ receiving corps might be one of the most exciting units on the roster. TJ Moore is back for another season, and he’ll pair up with rising star Bryant Wesco Jr. - a duo that could cause serious problems for ACC secondaries.
Add in returning contributors like Tyler Brown and Juju Preston, and you’ve got a group that can stretch the field and make plays after the catch. Spring will also be a proving ground for a trio of freshmen who could shake up the depth chart. If the quarterback play holds up, this group has the potential to be electric.
Tight Ends: A Blend of Experience and Upside
Clemson’s tight end room has quietly become one of the more intriguing position groups on the roster. Veteran Olsen Patt-Henry brings leadership and reliability, while Christian Bentancur, a newcomer with serious pass-catching chops, gives the Tigers a vertical threat at the position.
Tayveon Wilson adds depth, and Logan Brooking - fresh off a highlight-reel touchdown - could push for more snaps. It’s a versatile group that should give the offense plenty of options in both the passing game and run blocking.
Offensive Line: Rebuilding the Trenches
There’s work to do up front. The Tigers lost center Ryan Linthicum, creating a void in the middle of the line.
But there’s a solid foundation to build on. Harris Sewell returns as a steady presence at guard, and walk-on Chapman Pendergrass has earned respect for his grit and consistency.
A wave of talented freshmen is arriving to compete for spots, and spring ball will be critical in sorting out the pecking order. The offensive line will need to gel quickly if Clemson wants to hit the ground running in 2026.
Tackles and Guards: Time to Step Up
Collin Sadler is being counted on to anchor a young, injury-prone group. With two tackles departing, the Tigers will need to identify reliable replacements - and fast.
Brayden Jacobs and Ian Reed are two names to watch closely. Both have the tools to start, but they’ll need to prove they’re ready to handle the pressure of protecting the quarterback on Saturdays.
Defensive Line: Reloading with New Faces and Familiar Names
The defensive line is undergoing a bit of a retooling, but there’s plenty of talent to work with. Amare Adams is expected to lead the way up front, while Markus Strong and Andy Burburija are poised to play bigger roles.
With several key departures to the NFL, these players will need to grow up fast. The good news?
The raw ability is there. Now it’s about turning that potential into production.
Linebackers: Brown Takes the Helm
Sammy Brown is stepping into a leadership role in the linebacker room, and he’s got help. Transfers add depth and experience, while Jeremiah Alexander and Kobe McCloud are looking to carve out bigger roles.
Keep an eye on Fletcher Cothran - the former walk-on has been making noise and could be a surprise contributor. This unit has a mix of speed, toughness, and versatility, which should make it a strength of the defense.
Secondary: New Faces, New Opportunities
With Avieon Terrell gone, the cornerback room is in transition. Ashton Hampton is expected to take on a leadership role, and he’ll be joined by transfer additions Elliot Washington II and Donovan Starr. That trio brings a blend of experience and athleticism that should help stabilize the back end.
At safety, the Tigers are experimenting with a unique twist - Ronan Hanafin, a former wide receiver, is now lining up on defense. He brings a different perspective to the position, and if the transition sticks, he could be a wild card worth watching.
Jerome Carter III and Corey Myrick are expected to start, while Kylon Griffin offers valuable depth. It’s a group that may take some time to gel, but the pieces are there.
Special Teams: Stability in the Kicking Game
Clemson’s special teams unit looks solid heading into the new season. Nolan Hauser returns as the reliable placekicker, while Jack Smith handles punting duties.
The long snapper battle will be one to watch - freshman Jackson Reach is pushing veteran Brodey Conn for the job. It’s a subtle storyline, but one that could matter in close games.
What’s Next: Spring Camp Will Tell the Story
With so many new faces and moving parts, spring camp is going to be crucial. Position battles are everywhere - from quarterback to cornerback, from the offensive line to the linebacker corps. The Tigers are reloading, not rebuilding, but how quickly this group comes together will determine just how dangerous they can be in 2026.
There’s no shortage of talent. Now it’s about chemistry, execution, and leadership. If those pieces fall into place, Clemson could be right back in the thick of the ACC race - and maybe more.