2026 QB Details Visit, Where Clemson Stands in His Recruitment
By: Cameron Burnett September 26, 2023

CLEMSON — The Clemson-Florida State matchup drew a massive number of recruits into town to visit the Tigers. While it was a first-time experience for many, 2026 quarterback Josiah Oxendine wasn’t at his first Tigers game, but it was a great trip for him to grow his connection with Clemson.

A Palmetto State product, Oxendine holds seven Division-I offers, but the Tigers aren’t yet in that group as Dabo Swinney will hold off till next summer to begin offering the 2026 class. Nonetheless, his relationship with Clemson is growing and he spoke with The Clemson Insider about his experience in Death Valley.

“The experience was awesome. Clemson’s coaching staff and recruiting department were wonderful to myself and my guest. The crowd was unbelievable all day. The game itself did not disappoint. I thought Clemson had it but one or two plays made the difference. Clemson has a great team,” Oxendine said.

It was a sold-out Death Valley Oxendine got to witness, and even though the Tigers fell short, Swinney was still very detailed with the recruits postgame. Following the game, Oxendine and the recruits were welcomed into the
locker room where they could see what a reaction after a loss looks like.
Over the weekend as a whole, Oxendine was impressed by the coaches’ hospitality and specifically Swinney, who met with the recruits early.

“In the recruiting lounge, Coach Dabo did come in and speak to us a group. He shared his beliefs and values and what makes Clemson unique. Also, I was brought into the locker room after the game. Coach Dabo did an outstanding job immediately after taking a tough loss of keeping the team up. He also addressed us recruits before we departed. I have a lot of respect for Coach Dabo,” Oxendine said.

While he’s waiting for the offer, it doesn’t change where Clemson stands in Oxendine’s recruiting. As a South Carolina native, it’s always been a dream for him to play for the Tigers and being one of the first 2026 offers would mean the world to him.

“Clemson is a major component of my recruiting. I believe I can help them win National Championships in the future as I continue to grow, develop and master my craft as a QB. I am not chasing offers, but I’m definitely chasing greatness. If Coach Dabo and Clemson offered, it would validate all the grind I’m pouring into my position. Clemson has always been in my top five,” Oxendine said.

In the meantime, Oxendine said he’s focused on leading Dillon High School to a state championship, and those efforts would only increase his chance to receive an offer from Swinney and Clemson.