Clemson Football: 5-star OT is the biggest 2021 recruiting target

The 2021 Clemson football recruiting class has an opportunity to be spectacular, especially if the Tigers pick up a commitment from a 5-star OT.

The 2021 Clemson football recruiting class is currently ranked inside the top-5 of the nation and there’s still room for improvement over the next few months.

The Tigers held their second Junior Day this past weekend and several targets came away impressed with what they saw during their visit.

Perhaps the biggest target for Clemson football as the 2021 recruiting cycle progresses is 5-star OT Nolan Rucci. What do we mean by big? Rucci is currently 6-foot-8 and 289 pounds.

The talented offensive tackle is ranked the No. 3 offensive tackle in the nation and the No. 14 overall prospect, according to the 247 Sports’ Composite Player Rankings.

Rucci told Tigernet following his visit that he and his family thoroughly enjoyed Clemson and that he is expecting to make a make decision by the end of June or early July.

"“It was a really interesting experience to kind of sit down with him [Dabo Swinney],” Rucci told David Hood of Tigernet. “We had a chance back in October before the FSU game, but it was cool to sit down with him and it was reassuring. It solidified some of my belifes about Clemson, that it is a really genuine program. I really enjoyed my visit here.”"

Rucci’s big frame, length and athleticism make him an extremely sought-after prospect in this class. He has a frame large enough to grow to well over 300 pounds. With that height, length and potential size, there’s no reason to believe he couldn’t develop into a first-round offensive tackle.

Taking it a step further, Rucci may be the best offensive line prospect that Clemson football would have signed- should he make a decision in favor of the Tigers.

Rucci is currently considered a Penn State lean, but Clemson is squarely in the mix heading into the spring. In addition to visiting with the Tigers, Rucci visited Tennessee on Sunday.

Rubbing the Rock is Clemson-centered website that covers all things orange & white from football, recruiting, basketball, baseball, softball and more. Make sure you check here for more updates and analysis as we head into the spring.