Clemson has secured its second commitment for the 2026 recruiting class, with the addition of its first defensive player. The Tigers have received a verbal pledge from a highly regarded prospect from Tennessee.
Shavar Young Jr., an athlete at Webb School of Knoxville, Tennessee, primarily plays as a wide receiver.
After spending his sophomore year at Brentwood Academy, Young transferred back to Webb School in January 2024, where he had previously played as a freshman.
Young is gaining recognition as a promising defensive player. Known for his agility, speed, and strategic insight, he attracted attention from several top programs, including Colorado, Florida, and Georgia. Despite the strong competition, he chose to commit to Clemson after making several visits to the Tigers.
As fall camp approached, Dabo Swinney received an unexpected call from Ben Boulware, a key figure from Clemson’s 2016 national championship team.
Boulware, who has never been shy about his opinions, had previously criticized the team’s performance. However, his recent call to Swinney was to express his interest in joining the coaching staff. Swinney agreed to consider it under the condition that Boulware attend a staff meeting and several days of ‘All In’ meetings. If Boulware remained interested after that, further discussions about a coaching opportunity would follow.
When camp began on August 1, the traditional “The Boys are Back in Town” played in the indoor facility. Swinney noted that the Tigers’ roster is in its best shape in some time, with only reserve cornerback Myles Oliver currently sidelined.
This season, Swinney’s coaching staff has expanded significantly, thanks to a recent NCAA rule change that removed the cap on countable coaches.
