Clemson’s 2026 Roster Takes Shape with Five Walk‑On Additions
The university’s football program is navigating a new reality after the House v. NCAA settlement, which raised the permissible number of scholarship athletes to 105. In response, Clemson has opened its roster to a larger pool of walk‑on talent, aiming to fill gaps and add experience as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
The latest wave of transfers includes Danny Stein, who wrapped up a 2025 season at Furman before heading to Death Valley; Colson Brown, a former Georgia Tech recruit who spent a year at Anderson; Davion Joyner, a two‑year Limestone alumnus; Grady Sherrill, a three‑year North Carolina veteran who saw action at South Dakota in 2025; and J.R. Buckner, who concluded a 2024 stint at Auburn. Each brings a distinct background and a skill set that coaches believe will enrich the depth chart.
Beyond individual résumés, the additions reflect a strategic effort to diversify the talent pool across positions. By integrating players who have already experienced different collegiate environments, the staff hopes to foster competition and resilience within the squad.
The move also aligns with the program’s broader approach to the new 105‑player limit, which permits the school to carry more than the traditional scholarship count. With the roster now exceeding that threshold, Clemson can evaluate a wider array of candidates during practice, potentially reshaping the team’s dynamics before the first game.