Looking Ahead: Quarterback

Life with Deshaun Watson has been pretty sweet, but the dream will be over before you know it.

The list of his potential successors was rounded out a few days ago with a pair of commitments to the 2017 class.

Kelly Bryant has a head start on the field. In eight games this season, the freshman has completed 7 of 9 passes for 27 yards with an interception. He’s also rushed for 156 yards and two scores on 23 carries.

Fellow 2015 signee Tucker Israel is rounding out his season as a redshirt. He and Bryant are the only scholarship quarterbacks on the roster that are scheduled to still be around whenever Watson takes off for the NFL.

Four-star Zerrick Cooper, who’s been committed since last fall, is on track to arrive in the summer.

Five-star Hunter Johnson and four-star Chase Brice, both of whom committed last week, highlight Clemson’s 2017 class.

One of those five will be the man when Watson takes off for the league. Their presence could be an obstacle as Clemson looks to add a quarterback with the 2018 class. Then again, at the rate the Tigers are going, it might not even matter.

At least two prospects from the 2018 cycle have already been offered by Clemson.

Trevor Lawrence (Cartersville, Ga.) is considered by many as the top 2018 quarterback in the country. Some think he’s the best overall prospect. Clemson offered in June while he was in town during the Dabo Swinney Football Camp. He returned in the fall for the Notre Dame game.  Tennessee and Georgia are also thought to be among those receiving serious consideration.

Fort Dorchester’s Dakereon Joyner looks like the top instate quarterback for 2018. Clemson also offered during the summer, with the caveat that he’s also listed as an athlete on the recruiting board. Clemson, Georgia, NC State, UNC and South Carolina have offered.