CLEMSON — The player who picked up Clemson’s first 2027 offer has a return date set for Clemson.

Five-star in-state CB Joshua Dobson (Catawba Ridge) tells The Clemson Insider that he will be back for the Tigers’ season opener against LSU on August 30. Dobson is regarded as one of the top players in his class, regardless of position.

The 6-foot-1 defensive back was last on campus back in June during Dabo Swinney’s high school camp, although it was just a visit, and he did not work out. His last game day visit came late last season for Clemson’s blowout win over The Citadel on Military Appreciation Day.

Dobson currently has more than 30 offers, including Alabama, South Carolina, Georgia, Michigan, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Texas and Texas A&M.

Last season as a sophomore, he earned All-State and All-Region honors after totaling 48 tackles, 10 pass breakups and three interceptions, while also returning two kickoffs for touchdowns.

“I’m looking for a family-oriented environment,” Dobson told TCI in a previous interview. “A place where the coaches and mentors can help me get to the next level and a place where I can continue to be myself. Can’t wait to see what the future holds.”

Dobson ranks No. 4 overall in the Rivals Industry Rankings, No. 1 among all cornerbacks and every recruiting service ranks him as the top player in the state of South Carolina.