5 coaches who could be the head coach in waiting for Dabo Swinney

Utah just named a head coach in waiting who will take over when Kyle Whittingham retires. Here are five current assistants who could fill the same role for Dabo Swinney with Clemson Football.

Clemson offensive coordinator Garrett Riley, left, and offensive line coach Matt Luke look at offensive linemen during the 2024 Dabo Swinney Football Camp in Clemson in Clemson, S.C. Tuesday, June 4, 2024. / Ken Ruinard - staff / USA TODAY NETWORK

4 of 6

Mike Reed

Reed played football for the Boston College Eagles. The Carolina Panthers made him Mr. Irrelevant with the last pick of the 1995 NFL Draft. He played for the Panthers and the Frankfurt Galaxy of NFL Europe before beginning his coaching career.

Reed got his first opportunity in college football with Richmond before taking a role with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2002. He spent the next four seasons with the Eagles before returning to college with NC State in 2007.

Reed joined Swinney’s staff in 2021 as the defensive backs coach. His role has evolved to be the cornerbacks coach, special teams coordinator, and assistant head coach.

Reed is Swinney’s longest-tenured assistant. He has a strong track record of putting cornerbacks into the NFL. He was a candidate for the open Boston College head coaching position this past offseason.

Reed has earned a lot of respect within the program and from the fanbase. He has turned down multiple opportunities to go to other programs (rumor has it that Georgia has attempted to lure him a few times). He appears to be comfortable with his surroundings in Clemson and would make a good head coach one day.

NEXT: Matt Luke

Home/Clemson Football