CLEMSON – The Clemson Tigers began to lay the groundwork for key 2026 recruits over the Wake Forest weekend. One of those players was four-star offensive lineman Leo Delaney.

A Providence Day (N.C.) standout, Delaney is a towering 6-foot-6, 270 as just a high school sophomore. After missing on some key linemen in 2024, Dabo Swinney and Clemson would love for the early visits with Delaney to translate into a big addition for the future.

Following his first visit to the Tigers, Delaney spoke to The Clemson Insider about his experience.

“Death Valley was awesome. It was my first time up and I had a great time, I loved the atmosphere and the family vibe that the team had with eachother,” Delaney said.

Very early in his recruitment, Delaney already holds offers from in-state North Carolina and NC State. Clemson is just across the south border, and the proximity could play a factor.

During his visit, Delaney says the Tigers were very honest about how they only take in a few offensive linemen and generally have smaller recruiting classes every year.

Academics were a heavy emphasis from his visit, and this is an emphasis Clemson makes often. It’s more than football and it’s how the Tigers continue to stay relevant in the recruiting sphere.

On the football side, Delaney was told about the opportunity to play early at Clemson and he says that will “play a role” in his recruiting. While it won’t be till next year when he could be offered, Delaney is high on the Tigers after his first visit.

“Receiving a clemson offer would be amazing, as I love the school and they produce great lineman. They definitely are one of my favorite schools I’ve been to, from the atmosphere to the coaches and how long the coaches have been there,” Delaney said.

Clemson made a strong impression on Delaney, and it’s a short trip for him to make it back to Tiger Town. As his recruiting continues, Swinney and the Tigers put themselves in a good position once 2026 offers start rolling out.