When Dabo Swinney's recruiting radar starts buzzing, you know something big is brewing. Enter Trace Hawkins, a name that's quickly becoming the talk of the nation.
The Calhoun, Georgia quarterback is making waves, and for good reason. With two high-profile visits to Clemson's Death Valley lined up this spring, it's clear the Tigers are keenly interested.
Hawkins is more than just another promising high school player. This young athlete is already a state champion with a game that belies his years.
Ranked as the No. 5 quarterback in the 2028 class by Rivals, Hawkins has been making varsity plays since seventh grade. Let's break down his impressive stats:
In his freshman year (2024), Hawkins threw for 2,079 yards, with 23 touchdowns and just a single interception, leading Calhoun to a 3A State Title against a Jefferson team featuring Clemson's own Max Brown.
His sophomore year (2025) saw him improve even further, racking up 2,442 passing yards and 24 touchdowns, proving his freshman success was no fluke.
But Hawkins isn't just a passer; he's a true dual-threat. Over the past two seasons, he's added over 500 rushing yards and eight touchdowns on the ground, fitting perfectly into the dual-threat mold that Swinney and offensive coordinator Chad Morris are eager to develop.
With powerhouse programs like Florida, Duke, and Auburn already extending scholarship offers, Clemson's cautious "wait and see" approach may seem risky. However, Hawkins is no stranger to Clemson, marking his fifth and sixth visits to the campus. His continued interest is a testament to the appeal of Chad Morris's offensive vision and the opportunity to lead the 2028 class alongside recent commit Kharim Hughley.
As March unfolds, Hawkins is set for a whirlwind of activity, and all eyes will be on how this recruitment saga plays out.