Clemson’s approach to finding its next quarterback has taken a bold new turn under Dabo Swinney and his staff. Just a year ago, the Tigers had only one early QB offer out—Peyton Houston, who ended up picking LSU. Fast forward to this summer, and the Tigers are charging ahead, widening the net and making it clear they’re hunting for the best of the best. Recruiting insiders are buzzing that the revamped Clemson staff is attacking the 2028 class with a new energy, already putting two big-time offers on the table at quarterback.
The first offer? That went to Trace Hawkins, a four-star gunslinger out of Calhoun, Georgia, who’s already made himself at home in the Upstate with several trips to Death Valley since last summer. According to 247Sports Composite, Hawkins ranks as the nation’s No. 294 overall player and No. 20 quarterback, but don’t let those numbers fool you—this kid is a winner. As a freshman in 2024, he took Calhoun High all the way to a 12-3 record and a GHSA 3A state title, putting himself firmly on the radar of every major program in the South.
Hawkins isn’t just a flash in the pan, either. He’s kept getting better, following up that breakout year with a stellar sophomore season—2,442 passing yards and 24 touchdowns. The kid’s a true dual-threat, and he’s only getting started.
For their second offer, the Tigers went big and went west, zeroing in on Trey Wright out of Frisco, Texas. Wright’s not just any prospect—he’s the high school teammate of Clemson’s prized cornerback commit Bryant Robinson, which gives the Tigers a built-in connection. And Wright made sure everyone knew his name last season, racking up a jaw-dropping 5,806 total yards of offense to lead the entire country. Talk about putting the recruiting world on notice.
#AGTG✝️ After a great conversation with Coach Swinney I am beyond blessed to say that I have received an ⭕️ffer from Clemson University 🐅🟣🟠 @TajhB10 @coachchadmorris @ClemsonFB @CoachJRayburn @Coach_Bacc @drkharp @LSHS_FBRecruits @MikeRoach247 @samspiegs @FlightSkillz… pic.twitter.com/LQN7S7Kw7F
— Trey Wright (@itsTreyW3) June 21, 2026
Wright did it all last year—4,042 passing yards and 38 touchdowns through the air, plus another 1,764 yards and 16 scores with his legs. He’s not just a football star, either; he’s a standout on the Nike EYBL basketball circuit. The numbers say Clemson is out in front for this electric dual-threat, with nearly a 50-50 shot to land his commitment. By getting in early with both Hawkins and Wright, the Tigers are making sure the 2028 class starts with a bang and a foundation built for championships.
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