Analyzing the Potential of Clemson Tigers' Offense for the 2025 Season

Tigers look to have a potent offense in 2025. (Photo: Charles Mays)

The Clemson Tigers’ 2024 season ended in disappointment with a first-round playoff loss to the Texas Longhorns, but the foundation for a powerful 2025 offense is firmly in place. Despite the early exit, Clemson showcased flashes of brilliance on offense this past season, and with key returning players and new talent, the Tigers are poised to take another step forward and get back to the College Football Playoff for a second straight year in 2025. In this article, there will be a breakdown of each offensive unit and how they should shape up to look next fall.

Quarterback

The Tigers are hopeful that star quarterback Cade Klubnik will return for his senior season, but uncertainty lingers following some intriguing postgame comments after the Texas loss. When asked about his future, Klubnik responded, “I’m just trying to deal with the emotions of tonight. I got to play my last football game with a lot of these guys, so I’m not really thinking about me right now. I’m just thinking about all the relationships I’ve built over the last three years.”

If Klubnik does return, the Tigers will have one of the nation’s most dynamic quarterbacks. In 2024, he threw for 3,639 yards, 36 touchdowns, and just six interceptions while adding 463 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on the ground. His dual-threat abilities would provide a significant boost to Clemson’s offense in 2025.

Backing up Klubnik are redshirt sophomore Christopher Vizzina and true freshman Chris Denson from Plant City, Florida, to name a couple. Both quarterbacks bring a mix of arm strength and mobility, ensuring solid depth in the quarterback room.

Running Back

The running back position is a significant question mark for the Tigers heading into 2025 following the departure of veteran Phil Mafah. However, running backs coach CJ Spiller has a depth of young talent to evaluate during spring practices.

Jay Haynes, a redshirt sophomore, is a strong candidate to lead the backfield. Haynes rushed for 295 yards and three touchdowns in 2024 before tearing his ACL in the ACC Championship Game. Behind him, Keith Adams Jr., David Eziomume, and Jarvis Green gained valuable experience, particularly during the playoff game against Texas.

In addition to this core group, the Tigers welcome incoming talent in Gideon Davidson and Marquise Henderson, two highly touted recruits. Perhaps the most intriguing addition is Adam Randall, a converted wide receiver. Head coach Dabo Swinney confirmed postgame that Randall will transition to running back this spring, noting his natural ability: “He did some good stuff, man. He is a natural, and that’s something we want to grow this spring.” Randall showcased his potential at running back with 44 rushing yards on four carries against Texas, impressing fans and coaches.

With a mix of young talent and the addition of Adam Randall, the Tigers have the tools to build a formidable running game in 2025.

Wide Receiver

The wide receiver room is loaded with returning talent and new faces. The biggest question is whether Antonio Williams will return for his senior year or enter the NFL Draft. Williams had a breakout 2024 season, bringing in 904 yards and 11 touchdowns. If he stays, this group could be among the nation’s best. 

Returning sophomores Bryant Wesco Jr. and TJ Moore Jr. were the only freshmen in college football to surpass 500 receiving yards in 2024. Tyler Brown is set to make his return after missing much of this season due to injury, following a breakout freshman campaign in 2023. Another reliable target is Cole Turner, a proven contributor over the past few seasons.

The most exciting addition is Tristan Smith, a 6’5” transfer from Southeast Missouri and Clemson’s first non-quarterback recruit from the transfer portal. Smith’s size and athleticism make him a potential game-changer. With this group, the Tigers might just reclaim their "WRU" title in 2025.

Tight End

Even with the loss of star tight end Jake Briningstool to the NFL Draft, Clemson’s tight end group remains strong. Olsen Patt-Henry, who saw significant playing time in 2024, is expected to take on the starting role. He recorded 121 yards and three touchdowns while excelling as a blocker.

The depth chart includes Josh Sapp, Marcus Dixon, Christian Bentancur, and incoming three-star recruit Logan Brooking. With size, skill, and depth, this unit should be a reliable part of the offense.

Offensive Line

Clemson’s offensive line looks to be a major strength in 2025, with nearly all starters returning under the guidance of offensive line coach Matt Luke. This year marked significant improvement in the unit in Matt Lukes first year as coach.

In the postgame press conference, Dabo Swinney expressed confidence in the unit: "We got one offensive lineman that we are losing—Marcus Tate. All the guys are back, and then some."

Returning starters include Tristan Leigh, Ryan Linthicum, Walker Parks, and Blake Miller. Clemson will also add highly recruited freshmen Brayden Jacobs and Easton Ware, adding to an already talented group. This could be one of the best offensive lines in college football next year.

Putting It All Together

Offensive coordinator Garrett Riley has every reason to be excited about the 2025 season. With a veteran offense loaded with talent, Clemson is poised to be one of the nation’s most explosive offensive units. The Tigers should contend for another ACC title and make a strong push to return to the College Football Playoff, aiming to redeem themselves from this year’s early exit in Austin.