Clemson’s offensive line recruiting was spearheaded by Thomas Austin during his tenure, and the Tigers have to work to maintain those relationships with the staff change. In just a short time, Matt Luke is building connections with some of Clemson’s top targets.

2025 offensive lineman Mal Waldrep is a recruit the Tigers have coveted for a while. A legacy recruit, Waldrep visited Clemson for the Dabo Swinney Camp in June, where he received an offer. He built a relationship with Austin, and now Luke is stepping in quickly and doing the same.

Since his hiring, Luke has spoke to Waldrep often and his resumé can play a heavy factor early. Waldrep spoke to The Clemson Insider about how that connection is being nurtured.

I have been communicating with a lot of the Clemson staff, they have made sure to contact me often and I have been talking with Coach Luke. Coach Luke is a great coach and I really think he pushes his players hard and gets them developed to where they need to be. I feel like I could build a strong relationship with him throughout these next few months,” Waldrep said.

Waldrep made the trip to Death Valley to see Clemson take down Georgia Tech, and his interest in the Tigers hasn’t wavered in recent months. As his recruitment continues, Waldrep updated where Clemson stands.

“Clemson is still in a mix of my top few schools and even with a change in staff, the Clemson program still has so much to offer. I plan to get back up there in late January, early February,” Waldrep said.

The Tigers have done a strong job maintaining Waldrep’s interest after the staff change, and that’s paramount moving forward. As he enters his senior season next fall, Waldrep said his recruitment is still going smoothly, but he’s in no rush and Clemson remains one of the main contenders.

“I am taking my time with my commitment. My family and I just want to make sure I am making the best decision possible.”