A legacy recruit returned to Clemson for the Tigers blowout win over App State.
In-state offensive lineman John Hammond (Spartanburg) was back on campus for the first time since working out at camp over the summer.
The 2025 prospect got to spend most of the day on campus with his parents, enjoying the facilities, as well as getting some face time with the coaches, then taking in the blowout victory.
“The Reeves Center is awesome,” Hammond told The Clemson Insider. “The golf simulator, the bowling, there is a whole lot of fun in there. Coaches were great, the stadium was great, the team played great, everything was just great.”
Although, one of the biggest things to stand out was the impact Matt Luke’s had on the Tigers’ offensive line.
“They are playing better than I have seen in years,” Hammond said. “Disciplined, physical, I mean he has got them working up the right way. He is doing a great job.”
Clemson’s first-year offensive line coach has been keeping in contact.
“He’s telling me I am doing good and to keep going. Little thing s like that,” Hammond said.
Hammond’s father, Vance Hammond, played for Clemson in the late 1980’s, so the high school senior has always had a connection to the program and grew up rooting for the Tigers.
With that, Hammond has grown up dreaming about one day having the opportunity to follow in his father’s footsteps.
“Ever since I was little,” Hammond said. “It would mean the world, a dream come true. I have been going there since I was a little kid and I would really want to play there now. Playing there would be great.”
Hammond has already visited Wake Forest and plans to get to App State and East Carolina, as well as several other stops throughout the season. As he goes through these last rounds of visits, Hammond has a long list of characteristics he is looking for.
“Great atmosphere, great coaching,” Hammond said. “Coaching is the big one. Great fans, great teammates, facilities, winning and academics. Things like that.”
In between all these visits, Hammond is looking to finish up his high school career on a high note. The offensive lineman fully believes Spartanburg has what it takes to make a run at a state title.
“I think we can win out the rest of our season,” Hammond said. “Go undefeated until state championships and win that. The ceiling is as high as we want it to be. As long as we are willing to put the work in.”
A limited number of signed footballs from Clemson’s 2022 class are still available. Get yours while supplies last! Visit Clemson Variety & Frame or purchase online!
