“It’s a blessing when a guy chooses us. I pray about it. That’s why I don’t worry about guys we don’t get. We get the guys we’re supposed to get,” Dabo Swinney says. It’s a statement of faith, and in the cutthroat world of recruiting, faith and results often go hand-in-hand. Especially now, with the 2026 recruiting race heating up.

After all, with Cade Klubnik’s potential pro departure after the 2025 season, Swinney needs to keep his offensive arsenal stocked. And this past Saturday, the Tigers landed a massive 3,600-yard boost—two wide receivers, each with game-changing potential.

The 3,600-yard power surge

First up, Naeem Burroughs. This 4-star dynamo from The Bolles School in Jacksonville, Fla., had the who’s who of college football knocking on his door. At 5-foot-11, 160 pounds, he was a hot commodity, drawing offers from powerhouse programs like Florida, Texas, and USC. But, in a move that sent shockwaves through the recruiting world, he chose Clemson, snubbing his in-state favorites. And why not?

He has got serious game. He put up 829 yards and 12 touchdowns in his junior season alone, according to MaxPreps. Think about it: a player who racked up 2,507 yards in his high school career, deciding to don the tiger orange. That’s a statement. But Dabo Swinney wasn’t done making headlines.

Just a few hours later, Connor Salmin, a 4-star talent from Purcellville, Virginia, with 31 offers, committed to Clemson. He turned down Notre Dame and Penn State, sealing the deal with a simple, powerful message: “All Glory to God. ALL IN!” He’s even planning a Clemson visit for May 30th.

Salmin’s story is just as compelling. As a sophomore in 2023, he snagged 53 catches for 1,107 yards, earning All-Region and All-District honors. But Salmin isn’t just a football star; he’s a track phenom. He blazed through the 100-meter dash in 10.44 seconds, winning the Virginia state title. And get this: in January, he helped Bullis’ sprint medley relay team break a national record.

And here’s where it gets really interesting: Salmin’s announcement came hot on the heels of Burroughs’s commitment. Back-to-back playmakers, and with their combined 3,600-yard production, Clemson just got a massive offensive injection. It’s like Swinney pulled off a double strike, a strategic masterclass that’s got everyone talking.

So, what made Clemson the destination of choice? For Burroughs, despite multiple visits to Florida and FSU, Clemson simply ticked all the boxes. The culture, the coaching staff, the vision—it all aligned. For Salmin, his frequent visits to Clemson since last summer hinted at a strong connection with the program. And with his blazing speed, he’ll be a nightmare for opposing defenses.

But Dabo Swinney isn’t popping champagne just yet. He knows verbal commitments are just that—verbal. Target programs won’t back down, and flips are always a possibility. Locking them in on signing day is the next crucial step.

Dabo Swinney is building the 2026 foundation

Burroughs joins long snapper Alex Nocco as the second Florida prospect to commit to Clemson’s 2026 class. But the Tigers are stacking talent across the board. 4-star standouts Adam Guthrie (OT), Shavar Young Jr. (CB), and Tait Reynolds (QB) are all on board, forming a strong foundation for the future.

Speaking of Reynolds, Swinney’s commitment to building genuine relationships with future Tigers is evident. In January 2025, he and OC Garrett Riley made the trek to Arizona to connect with Reynolds, Clemson’s first 2026 commit. It’s not just about showcasing the facilities or the program; it’s about building trust and showing that Clemson is more than just a football factory.

Now, with Connor Salmin adding his name to the list, Dabo Swinney’s 2026 class is shaping up to be something special. Currently ranked No. 21 nationally, with 3 three-stars, 4 four-stars, and one unrated prospect, the Tigers are laying the groundwork for a potential powerhouse.

And let’s not forget Swinney’s guiding philosophy. “God’s gonna bring the right ones here,” he said back in October 2024. It’s a blend of faith, vision, and relentless effort that defines his approach. He’s not just recruiting players; he’s building a culture, a family. With 3,600 yards of wide receiver talent now committed to the Tigers, it’s clear his approach is paying off. And with his blend of faith, strategy, and a knack for finding top-tier talent, he’s building a team that’s ready to compete for championships.