Clemson Tigers HC Dabo Swinney Praises Transfer Cornerback

Dabo Swinney and the Clemson Tigers are in desperate need of turning their program around after going just 7-6 in 2025 and missing out on the College Football Playoff and ACC Title Game.

Swinney was more aggressive in the transfer portal than he typically has been in the past, as they are desperate to get Clemson back on track in 2026.

One player whom the Tigers landed in the transfer portal was cornerback Elliot Washington II from Penn State. Washington is joining Clemson for his final year of eligibility. 

"Tough. Fast. Fiery. He's got a lot of charisma to him, Swinney said about Washington. "I like his swagger, if you will. He's going to help us, for sure. We've got one year [with him], and we needed speed." 

Washington is coming off a solid season at Penn State, as he had 18 total tackles, six pass breakups, and an interception. 

He is a solid addition to the Tigers' cornerback room, which Swinney has been pleased with thus far.

"So far, so good with that group," Swinney said. "Very encouraged with them."

Swinney needs the roster to perform at a higher level, as they were expected to be in the College Football Playoff in 2025 and be a contender for the National Championship.

The Tigers fell way short of that goal, making the 2026 season pivotal for Swinney to turn things around.

He has had a ton of success as the head coach of the program, including four National Championship appearances and two titles.

Swinney is going all out to improve the team for next season, bringing in Chad Morris and Rich Bisaccia as new coordinators. Morris is the offensive coordinator, a role he previously had under Swinney from 2011 to 2014.

Bisaccia comes with over 40 years of coaching experience, including the past four seasons as the Green Bay Packers' special teams coordinator. 

With their two coordinators in place, Swinney is relying on the experience to help the Tigers get back on track.

Clemson has a crucial season ahead, but if transfer players like Washington can perform, it could help them get back to the College Football Playoff.

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