As Clemson wrapped up Day 5 of spring practice, head coach Dabo Swinney met with the media to reflect on the team’s progress, individual standouts, and the ongoing developments surrounding the program. With an intense offseason underway, Swinney’s insight painted a picture of a team eager to grow, hungry to compete, and determined to reclaim its place among college football’s elite.
Much of the attention remains on quarterback Cade Klubnik as he heads into his second full season as the Tigers’ starter. Swinney was quick to emphasize the natural progression of a young quarterback, urging patience while acknowledging the strides Klubnik has made. The game is slowing down for him, and the confidence that comes with experience is becoming evident. Fans and analysts alike are often too quick to judge a young quarterback against the polished, veteran version of himself, forgetting that growth takes time. Klubnik has spent the offseason developing chemistry with his receivers, improving his situational awareness, and working on cutting down turnovers. Swinney noted that his legs will be a bigger factor this season as Clemson looks to unlock the dual-threat potential Klubnik flashed last year fully.
Among the fresh faces making an impression is defensive lineman Will Heldt. Seeing him live for the first time, Swinney was struck by his size, strength, and relentless motor. He’s still learning the defense, but his energy is impossible to ignore. Another name that continues to generate buzz is Amare, who has been everything coaches and teammates expected, talented, physical, and eager to contribute.
On the defensive side, Swinney highlighted the intensity of practices and the leadership of veteran players. Defensive line coach Nick Eason has been coaching every snap with a sense of urgency, demanding the confidence needed to dominate. With postseason absences affecting certain players, Swinney is focused on a one-day-at-a-time mentality, ensuring that every rep is used to build toward the bigger picture.
Spring practice isn’t just about competition; it’s about evaluation. The team held its first “lab day,” a half-practice, half-scrimmage session designed to work through different field situations. Full-contact scrimmages are on the horizon, with the first major one set for Wednesday. These reps are crucial for young players looking to prove themselves, especially with only three players missing from the roster, leaving the rest of the squad with valuable opportunities for growth.
One of the most intriguing battles this spring has been at punter, where Jack Smith took the lead in the team’s first true competition day. While Robert Gunn III also showed flashes, Smith emerged as the top performer in the early going. Special teams remain an area of focus, with Swinney eager to see how the competition shakes out over the coming weeks.
As always, Swinney took time to recognize the impact of Clemson Life, a program that provides educational opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities. Swinney expressed his admiration for the program, sharing that he will be speaking at their graduation this year. Clemson’s players also engage with Clemson Life students twice a year, an experience Swinney believes is just as rewarding for the team as it is for the participants.
With spring practice in full swing, roster management remains a challenge. NCAA rules require teams to trim down to 105 players before the season starts, and while it’s a tough reality for some players, Swinney reassured that those who don’t make the cut will still have opportunities as student assistants. The goal is to enter the season with a strong, healthy group ready to compete at the highest level.
As Swinney wrapped up his media session, he shifted his focus to Clemson basketball, expressing his support for the team as they continue their season, stating simply, “I’m rooting for Clemson, man.”
