It’s been a fun summer for Clemson recruiting fans.

The Tigers have secured 17 commitments since the middle of May, and after that kind of surge, the class is getting very close to being done.

With 24 verbal pledges in total, the class ranks No. 14 in the updated ESPN team recruiting rankings and features eight players in the SC Next 300. The class was No. 13 in the June update to the rankings.

The service lists four-star QB Kharim Hughley as the top offensive player in the class, with four-star DE Desmond Malpress as the top get on the other side of the ball.

Working to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season and regain Clemson’s status as a consistent national title contender, Dabo Swinney is building a deep and well-balanced class. Anchored by Georgia and Florida talent, this class focuses on restocking the trenches with developmental size and securing dynamic playmakers at skill positions. As usual, Swinney emphasized highly competitive prospects with a winning pedigree.

Dual-threat QB Kharim Hughley headlines the offense. He has good accuracy, a strong arm, mobility and confidence. RB Gary Walker brings agility and speed (21 mph max). WR Jamarin Simmons offers exceptional short-area quickness and ball skills, while Trey Wimbley provides verified 4.47 speed to stretch the field vertically.

The offensive line features OT J.J. Brown (6-5, 295), who has elite length and upside. Defensively, end Desmond Malpress (6-4, 215) is a great athlete with 4.59 speed. OLB Bryce Kish (6-4, 220) adds versatile skill and physicality, and DT Luke Starcevic (6-5, 250) brings a lengthy frame and motor to the interior.

With four-star in-state DT Seth Tillman set to reveal a decision on Saturday, the Tigers’ current class could be on the verge of receiving another bump. The addition of Tillman would mean a ninth recruit inside the SC Next 300.

Clemson is also waiting on a decision from four-star safety Seth Williams, who has yet to set a new commitment date after postponing late last month. His recruitment has come down to Clemson and Georgia.

Texas A&M remains in the top spot in the latest update, with Notre Dame, Texas, Oregon and Oklahoma rounding out the Top 5.

Photo courtesy of Kharim Hughley on Instagram