The Clemson Tigers' most important offseason pickup has been revealed heading into 2026.
The Clemson Tigers were actually fairly active in the transfer portal for a change, nabbing 10 players this winter.
That was twice the amount of transfers Dabo Swinney bagged between 2022 and 2025 combined, representing a sharp shift for the generally stubborn head coach.
The vast majority of Clemson's portal additions came on the defensive side of the ball, with the Tigers only netting two offensive players.
One of those two weapons, however, was former SMU running back Chris Johnson, who flashed impressive potential with the Mustangs and could ultimately steal the starting job next season.
In fact, ESPN's Billy Tucker has tabbed Johnson as Clemson's most important newcomer for the 2026 campaign.
"Clemson has searched for a consistent ground game for two seasons," Tucker wrote. "Converted wideout Adam Randall is off to the NFL, and while promising sophomore Gideon Davidson flashed in a limited role in 2025, Clemson lacks a proven lead back or big-play threat. The Tigers haven't had a true game-breaking all-purpose back since Travis Etienne Jr."
Clemson Tigers running back Chris Johnson. Credit: Ken Ruinard / USA Today Co / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images.Johnson rushed for 479 yards and four touchdowns this past season, averaging a hefty 7.1 yards per carry. He also showed ability as a receiver out of the backfield, logging 17 catches for 180 yards and a score.
"[Chad] Morris is going to feed Johnson in every way he can," Tucker continued. "He's one of the fastest, most dynamic backs in college football -- an all-purpose weapon in the mold of C.J. Spiller."
Johnson actually began his collegiate career at Miami in 2023 and spent two seasons with the Hurricanes, barely getting any playing time before transferring to SMU.
The Fort Lauderdale, Fl. native has two years of eligibility remaining and could ultimately develop into Clemson's top backfield weapon.
"Expect him to line up all over the formation, get featured on screens, swings and perimeter touches, and quickly become a security blanket for a young quarterback," Tucker wrote. "This was a significant portal loss for SMU and a potential two-year feature back for Clemson."
It should also be noted that Johnson put forth a strong performance against the Tigers in 2025, carrying the ball six times for 59 yards and a touchdown while catching four passes for 40 yards in a 35-24 Mustangs win.
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