Dabo Swinney and Mike Reed have positioned Clemson right at the forefront in the race for the top defensive back of the 2027 class as spring recruiting season kicks off.
Josh Dobson, a five-star cornerback, has released his list of top schools, and Clemson has claimed that coveted first spot. Dobson will headline Clemson’s annual “Elite Retreat” on March 7, competing against heavyweights like LSU, South Carolina, and Miami.
Dobson isn’t just a top target; he’s a potential game-changer. Ranked as the No. 6 player nationally and the top prospect in North Carolina, this 6-foot-1 defensive wizard could become the highest-rated cornerback to ever sign with Clemson. His commitment would elevate him above Clemson legends like Andrew Booth Jr. and Mackensie Alexander, likely securing a top 10 spot in the program’s history.
His upcoming transfer to North Carolina’s powerhouse, William Amos Hough, follows a stellar stint at Catawba Ridge (SC), where his performance was nothing short of legendary. Over three varsity seasons, Dobson put up "video game" numbers:
Defense:
- 76 tackles and 6 interceptions, including a 100-yard pick-six.
Special Teams:
- 602 return yards and 3 touchdowns on just 20 touches.
Versatility:
- 163 offensive yards and 2 scores while playing part-time.
Clemson’s pursuit has been "relentless." Defensive coordinator Tom Allen and Mike Reed have hosted Dobson multiple times, most recently during the 2025 season opener against LSU. Yet, the competition remains fierce:
LSU: Some insiders see them as a slight favorite with Lane Kiffin and secondary expert Corey Raymond leading a strong push.
Dobson has visited Columbia seven times, more than any other campus. Other contenders include Texas A&M, Miami, Auburn, and Texas Tech.
Hosting Dobson at the Elite Retreat offers Clemson a prime opportunity to set themselves apart this spring. With "culture" as Clemson’s key selling point, showcasing their campus first underscores their commitment to keeping top Carolina talent right where it belongs.