By Hale McGranahan.
More than a week has gone by since Clemson turned Signing Day 2015 into one of the most lucrative commitment days of the Dabo Swinney era.
Since 2010, there’s been plenty of Siging Day excitement around Tigertown.
The announcements by D.J. Howard and Justin Parker capped Swinney’s first full year as head coach. Stephone Anthony and Tony Steward were among the group to pop in 2011. D.J. Reader pulled the trigger a year later. Mackensie Alexander and Tyrone Crowder headlined the group of five in 2013. Richard Yeargin went public with his decision on Signing Day in 2014.
Clemson’s Signing Day 2015 theatrics will be remembered more for what was locked down for 2016: Tavien Feaster, Cornell Powell and Jamie Skalski.
Their commitments upped the 2016 Clemson class to seven, and it’s already full at multiple positions, including quarterback (Zerrick Cooper) and tight end (J.C. Chalk).
Swinney told reporters a week ago that he expects the Tigers’ 2016 haul to have 12-16 members. Assuming that 16 is the number, here’s a look at what positions those nine open spots will come from.
The commitments by Powell and T.J. Chase leaves an opening at wide receiver. Size is among the criteria to keep in mind as Clemson pursues looks to fill that final opening. Prospects like Diondre Overton and Bryan Edwards certainly fit that profile.
Sean Pollard is the lone offensive linemen commitment, but as many as three more may come on board. John Simpson, Parker Bourdreaux and E.J. Price are among the top candidates.
Because the 2015 class was heavy on defensive linemen, there’s not much room at either end or tackle, so look for Clemson to sign one of each. Skalski could be joined by as many as two other linebackers, Tre Lamar and Rahshaun Smith being the top targets.
At defensive back, the number figures to be no higher than two. Cornerbacks Saivion Smith and Robbie Robinson are among the top-rated prospects with offers from Clemson.
Clemson will also sign a punter in 2016. But it could be a while before it becomes clear as to who the prospects are. Generally, specialists are offered after performing at Swinney’s annual summer camp.