When it comes to Clemson’s running back room, a lot of the offseason attention has been centered around on true freshman Gideon Davidson, who was one of the nation’s top-ranked running backs in the 2025 recruiting cycle.

As a senior in high school, Davidson was the Gatorade Player of the Year in the state of Virginia after rushing for 2,341 yards with 37 touchdowns. He averaged an impressive 8.9 yards per carry and played a big role in his team going undefeated and winning a state title last season.

Davidson hasn’t wasted any time making an impression since enrolling at Clemson in January, drawing plenty of buzz and praise from coaches and teammates alike, and ESPN believes he’s poised to make a big impact for the Tigers in 2025.

ESPN projected the top 10 freshmen for the upcoming college football season (based on spring and preseason camp performances, as well as roster needs), and Davidson is ranked at No. 3 among those potential freshman breakout candidates.

Only Oregon wide receiver Dakorien Moore and Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood are ranked ahead of Davidson on the list.

“The reigning Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year, Davidson was the No. 3 running back in the 2025 class after rushing for over 7,000 yards in his career. He immediately backed up the accolades with a strong spring practice,” ESPN’s Billy Tucker wrote. “Clemson coach Dabo Swinney has used words such as “special” and “natural” when describing his true freshman with a verified track speed of 10.6. Davidson’s vision, explosiveness and ability to cut in tight windows are reminiscent of former Clemson running back Travis Etienne. The 6-foot, 200-pounder has the physical maturity and running style to make an immediate impact, which is needed as running back is one of the few inexperienced areas for a team with legitimate national title aspirations.”

While he’s not expected to be the starter to begin the season, Davidson seems primed to have plenty of chances to showcase his talent in his debut season.

“The game is still slowing down for him, especially all the stuff that he is looking at defensively right now. Because there is a lot going on,” Swinney said following Clemson’s first scrimmage of fall camp on Aug. 9. “It is like a washing machine, there is stuff everywhere. He is willing, that is the main thing. And he is smart. As long as you got that, the rest of it will come through getting some good reps.”

Outside of ESPN’s projected top 10 freshmen for 2025, Clemson defensive tackle Amare Adams and Clemson offensive lineman Brayden Jacobs were named as two of the watch list players.