Clemson’s most aggressive transfer portal cycle to date has drawn national skepticism, with one major outlet labeling the Tigers a portal “loser” despite a double-digit haul of defensive additions.
The critique centers not on effort, but on emphasis — as Clemson leaned heavily into defense while leaving questions unanswered on offense heading into the 2026 season.
Defense-heavy portal class sparks national debate
After signing just six transfers total from 2018 through last offseason, Clemson Tigers pivoted sharply in the 2026 cycle, adding 10 players through the portal.
Nine of those additions came on defense, including five defensive linemen — London Merritt, Markus Strong, Kourtney Kelly, Andy Burburija and C.J. Wesley — along with four defensive backs: Donovan Starr, Elliot Washington II, Jerome Carter and Corey Myrick.
The lone offensive addition was former SMU running back Chris Johnson Jr., a speed-based complement rather than a structural overhaul.
That imbalance drew criticism from CBS Sports, which included Clemson among its transfer portal losers for the 2026 cycle.
Offense under the microscope
In its evaluation, CBS Sports pointed to Clemson’s offensive inefficiency in 2025 and the absence of portal reinforcements at quarterback and along the offensive line.
Clemson finished 62nd nationally in yards per play, while also ranking near the bottom nationally in pressure rate allowed and yards created before contact in the run game — metrics that fueled questions about the Tigers’ decision to stand pat up front.
The outlet acknowledged head coach Dabo Swinney for fully embracing the portal, but framed the strategy as incomplete given the offensive needs entering a transition year.
Quarterback decision looms large
The most pointed critique centered on Clemson’s quarterback room following the departure of Cade Klubnik.
Rather than pursuing an experienced portal starter, Clemson opted for continuity, positioning Christopher Vizzina as the next option after limited but efficient action across the past two seasons.
The decision reflects Clemson’s long-standing preference for internal development — a philosophy that now faces heightened scrutiny without a veteran safety net.
Context matters heading into 2026
CBS Sports also listed Florida State and Duke among portal losers, both of which Clemson will face on the road during the 2026 ACC schedule.
Clemson opens the season against LSU Tigers in Baton Rouge — a program the outlet labeled a portal winner — immediately placing Clemson’s roster decisions under a national spotlight.
What it means for Clemson
The “loser” label doesn’t reflect a lack of action — it reflects a bet.
Clemson is wagering that defensive reinforcement, continuity on offense and internal growth along the offensive line will outweigh the absence of splashy portal additions at quarterback and up front.
Whether that approach proves prudent or problematic will be answered early, and loudly, in September.