Though the Clemson Tigers’ 2024 season came to an end with a tough College Football Playoff loss to the Texas Longhorns, there’s no reason for fans to hang their heads. While the upset they hoped for didn’t materialize, simply making it to the playoff was a huge achievement—and a sign of the bright future ahead for the program.
Head coach Dabo Swinney and the Tigers have already laid the groundwork for success in 2025. The upcoming offseason will see fresh talent injected into the roster through both recruiting and the transfer portal, a rare but strategic move for Swinney. Defensive end Will Heldt and wide receiver Tristan Smith are already new faces to look forward to, adding depth to key positions.
ESPN’s Bill Connelly also gave a glowing review of Clemson’s future. “Swinney’s early moves in the transfer portal, something he rarely uses, have paid off,” Connelly said. “There’s excitement around the upside of the passing game, especially with Cade Klubnik returning. His remarkable performance this season—3,639 yards, 36 touchdowns, and leading a group of talented young receivers—sets up a dynamic offense moving forward.”
Klubnik’s growth has been a key highlight. After a breakout year with impressive stats, it’s highly likely he’ll return for another season rather than entering the 2025 NFL Draft, giving Clemson a stable and strong quarterback for 2025. Alongside him, the receiving corps—including standout players like Antonio Williams, Bryant Wesco Jr., and T.J. Moore—promises to be one of the most talented in recent memory.
The defense, which has struggled since the departure of Brent Venables, could also see adjustments, with Swinney possibly tweaking the coaching staff to address these challenges. With more development and a few tweaks to the defense, Clemson will be in prime position to compete at the highest level.
With a fresh recruiting class, smart transfer additions, and an established QB, Clemson’s future looks bright. While the season may not have ended as hoped, the foundation for success in 2025 is solid, and Tigers fans have every reason to be excited for what’s to come.
