Clemson RB Gideon Davidson earns preseason freshman All-American honors

Clemson running back Gideon Davidson has been named to the On3 Preseason True Freshman All-American Team.
Clemson running back Gideon Davidson (9) during Clemson football 2025 practice at the Allen N. Reeves Football Complex in Clemson, S.C. Friday, August 1, 2025.
Clemson running back Gideon Davidson (9) during Clemson football 2025 practice at the Allen N. Reeves Football Complex in Clemson, S.C. Friday, August 1, 2025. | Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The hype for Clemson's next potential star in the backfield continues to build.

True freshman running back Gideon Davidson was named to the On3 Preseason True Freshman All-American Team on Tuesday, a major national honor that signals he's ready to make an immediate impact for the Tigers this fall.

Davidson, the lone running back selected to the prestigious first team, was recognized for both his staggering high school production and his potential to contribute from day one for the national title contenders.

"The Lynchburg (Va.) Liberty Christian Academy product enters a favorable situation in Clemson’s backfield and could be in line for carries early," the On3 analysis noted.

That opportunity comes on the heels of a dominant high school career where Davidson was a touchdown machine, amassing an incredible 5,057 yards and 80 touchdowns in his final two seasons.

On3 praised the Clemson newcomer as an "instinctive runner with vision, tackle-breaking ability, and quality hands out of the backfield."

Davidson joins other top national recruits on the list, including Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood and Oregon wide receiver Dakorien Moore. For a Clemson team with championship aspirations, the preseason recognition for their new running back is a promising sign that help has arrived and is ready to contribute.