Dabo Swinney believes his program signed the best running back in the 2025 recruiting class – Gideon Davidson.

Clemson’s head coach spoke glowingly of the talented true freshman before the Tigers began spring practice on Feb. 28.

A unanimous four-star recruit, and a top-70 national prospect regardless of position according to the 247Sports Composite rankings, Davidson signed with Clemson this past December before enrolling early in January.

“I think he was the best high school (running back) out there – in totality, from my evaluation, when I’m talking about the total package. I think this kid is special,” Swinney said. “But that was high school. He’s got to start right back at the bottom and go prove it. But he’s pretty dang talented.”

Davidson showed just how talented he is during his highly productive prep career in Virginia.

A product of Liberty Christian Academy, Davidson helped his team to an undefeated season and a second straight state championship as a senior in 2024. Prior to the December early signing period, Davidson was credited with 2,054 rushing yards on 223 attempts (9.2-yard average) with 34 rushing touchdowns in 2024.

When he signed with Clemson with his senior season still ongoing, Davidson had amassed 7,438 rushing yards on 701 career carries (10.5-yard average) with 118 career rushing touchdowns. He was also credited with 606 receiving yards and eight scores on 43 career catches, giving him 8,044 yards from scrimmage.

The 5-foot-11, 185-pounder was named Gatorade Player of the Year for the state of Virginia, as well as MaxPreps Virginia High School Football Player of the Year, in 2024.

And oh, by the way, he has a 40-inch vertical jump, according to Swinney.

“Well, he jumped 40 inches. There ain’t many people on the planet that’s got a 40-inch vertical. That’s pretty freaky,” Swinney said. “The guy’s gifted, and he’s just an amazing human being.”

Swinney added that Davidson’s head would be spinning at the start of spring practice, like other true freshmen getting acclimated to the college game. But Swinney loves what Davidson brings to the table – not only with his talent, but also from a leadership standpoint.

“He’s unique,” Swinney said. “He’s not a guy that sits around and waits to be led. He leads. He’s a leader. I mean, he don’t know anything. He’s going to get out there and he’s going to be spinning around – this is still a high school kid rolling in here. But he’s just different.”