Clemson’s 2026 recruiting class has taken a major hit. Four-star defensive end Dre Quinn, a top prospect out of Buford (Ga.) High School, announced Thursday that he has decommitted from the Tigers.
Quinn, who pledged to Clemson over Texas earlier this summer, becomes the program’s first decommitment in the 2026 cycle. His decision follows a September 13 visit to Tennessee—something Dabo Swinney’s staff has historically discouraged for committed players. Texas, meanwhile, never stopped pursuing the blue-chip defender.
A Highly-Touted Prospect
Listed at 6-foot-4 and 228 pounds, Quinn is regarded as one of the better edge rushers in the 2026 class. The Rivals Industry Ranking placed him at No. 359 overall and No. 39 among defensive ends, while 247Sports and ESPN also list him as one of the top defensive prospects in Georgia.
He was last seen on campus for Clemson’s season-opening loss to LSU.
Impact on Clemson’s 2026 Class
With Quinn’s departure, Clemson’s 2026 class now stands at 21 commitments. The Tigers rank No. 14 in the On3 Industry Team Rankings and No. 15 in the 247Sports Composite.
For a program trying to stabilize after a 1-3 start to the season, the loss of Quinn stings both in perception and talent.