GREENVILLE, S.C. — The early signing period opened Wednesday with Clemson and South Carolina securing most of their 2026 recruiting classes, each taking a different approach to rebuilding after uneven seasons.
Clemson signed 20 prospects, a group highlighted by top-100 defensive back Polo Anderson, who chose the Tigers over multiple Power Five programs. Clemson stocked up heavily on the offensive and defensive lines while also adding depth at quarterback and receiver. The class reflects a need to stabilize the offense and address depth concerns following injuries, transfers and inconsistent play over the last year.
South Carolina entered the week with a class generally ranked in the top 20–25 nationally and built around the lines of scrimmage. The Gamecocks’ headliner is five-star interior offensive lineman Darius Gray, one of the top players nationally at his position. South Carolina also added multiple four-star defenders, several offensive linemen and a handful of versatile athletes expected to compete early.
Both programs are leaving roster space open, signaling that the transfer portal will remain a central part of roster construction. Clemson coach Dabo Swinney has acknowledged more willingness to explore transfer additions than in previous cycles, particularly for offensive skill positions. South Carolina coach Shane Beamer has emphasized building long-term depth through high-school recruiting while using the portal to target immediate help at quarterback and receiver.
The two in-state rivals now move into the second phase of the offseason, where retaining current players, supplementing talent through transfers and managing NIL demands may prove as important as signing day itself.
For Clemson and South Carolina alike, Wednesday provided a foundation — but the roster reshuffling is far from finished.