The 2026 Clemson Tigers enter the season with a clear advantage: three position groups that rank among the deepest in the country. Coaches and analysts alike have pointed to the running backs, cornerbacks, and wide receivers as the foundation of a unit that could dominate both the ground game and the passing attack.
At running back, Gideon Davidson is slated to be the primary starter after impressing during spring camp. His blend of power and vision gives the offense a reliable anchor, while Chris Johnson Jr., known for his blistering speed, will be deployed as a receiving back on late‑down situations. Veterans David Eziomume and Jarvis Green add further depth; Green even caught a touchdown pass in the 2024 College Football Playoff, underscoring his knack for big‑play moments.
The Running Backs: Experience Meets Explosiveness
The group’s competition is fierce, with each player pushing the other for snaps. Davidson’s consistency, Johnson’s agility, and the playmaking ability of Eziomume and Green create a backfield that can adapt to any defensive look. This depth not only fuels the rushing attack but also spreads the field, opening up opportunities for play‑action passes.
Cornerbacks Ready to Lock Down
In the secondary, Ashton Hampton and Elliot Washington II are expected to start at the outside corner spots. Both bring a mix of size and technique that should help the defense stay tight against top receivers. Donovan Starr’s speed makes him a nightmare for slot players, while Corian Gipson and Branden Strozier, now in their third season, are battling for starting roles and could bring a fresh spark. Misun Kelley adds versatility, capable of sliding into the TIGER position and injecting speed into the slot.
Wide Receivers Packed with Potential
The receiving corps is equally compelling. Junior standouts Bryant Wesco Jr. and T.J. Moore are projected to earn All‑American recognition, thanks to their route precision and hands. Experienced pieces Tyler Brown, Cole Turner, and Tristan Smith provide continuity, with Smith’s extra year of eligibility still pending but expected to be a key contributor. Freshmen Gordon Sellars, Naeem Burroughs, and Connor Salmin have shown notable growth during spring, suggesting they could become unexpected playmakers.
Overall, the Tigers’ offense appears poised to be one of the most dynamic in the ACC as the season kicks off in September. The depth across these three groups not only offers flexibility in game planning but also creates a competitive environment that should elevate each player’s performance. If the early trends hold, Clemson fans can look forward to a season filled with big plays, stout defense, and a relentless push for the top of the standings.