CLEMSON, S.C. — The Clemson Tigers kicked off fall camp Thursday afternoon on the practice fields behind the Allen Reeves Complex, establishing a businesslike focus as head coach Dabo Swinney begins evaluating depth chart battles ahead of the 2026 season.
Before drills commenced, newly appointed University President Dr. Benjamin C. Ayers briefly addressed the team during stretching. The practice marked the first extended viewing opportunity for media during the opening five periods of fall preparation.
Quarterback Arm Talent and Roster Newcomers
Under center, true freshman quarterback Tait Reynolds generated early attention during throwing drills, demonstrating notable velocity and added physical bulk. Reynolds consistently hit receivers in stride during deep ball work, missing on only a single overthrown pass during the viewing window. Fellow freshman quarterback Brock Bradley also displayed added weight compared to his spring frame.
At running back, transfer Chris Johnson Jr. took reps with the punt return group alongside Juju Preston, Bryant Wesco Jr., T.J. Moore, Gideon Davidson, and Tyler Brown. Possessing reported 4.2 speed, Johnson represents a potential weapon in the return game under offensive coordinator Chad Morris and special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia.
On the outside, freshman wide receiver Naeem Burroughs showed physical growth since spring, while freshman Gordon Sellers rotated behind Moore in receiver drills.
Defensive Line Rotations and Secondary Upgrades
Along the defensive interior, JUCO transfer Andy Burburija—noted by teammates Sammy Brown and Will Heldt during ACC Kickoff for his “tree trunk” legs—worked behind fellow transfer Markus Strong. Strong took reps in the primary group alongside sophomore Amare Adams, while Vic Burley and Champ Thompson also anchored the interior.
Defensive tackle Kourtney Kelly wore a yellow non-contact jersey as he continues recovering from a spring ACL tear, while freshman offensive lineman Adam Guthrie is sidelined for the season due to a high school injury.
In the secondary, transfer additions Elliot Washington at cornerback alongside safeties Corey Myrick and Jerome Carter provided immediate veteran depth. Behind them, safety Ronan Hanafin displayed increased comfort and confidence, while Kylon Griffin and Polo Anderson also took reps. Cornerback Ashton Hampton took on an assertive leadership role for the unit.
Special Teams Adjustments and Coaching Intensity
Defensive coordinator Tom Allen set an aggressive tone on day one, emphasizing to the unit that the program’s daily expectation is to be the best tackling team in the country. Former Clemson player Nolan Turner also took on a hands-on role coaching the secondary, while Corico Wright instructed nickelbacks.
On special teams, coordinator Rich Bisaccia—who “coaches with rage”—introduced a specialized waggle drill utilizing tackling dummies and cones as soon as players transitioned outside. The drill focuses on lane discipline and shedding blocks on kickoff coverage.
Swinney and his staff maintained a tight focus on internal execution as preparations continue leading up to the season opener at LSU.
