Dabo Swinney Discusses Clemson’s Wide Receiver Group’s Elite NFL Talent and Cade Klubnik’s Comeback

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney shared his thoughts on several key players following the Tigers’ spring practice scrimmage yesterday, particularly focusing on wide receivers and quarterbacks.

Swinney was impressed with the growth of sophomore wide receiver Bryant Wesco Jr., who has gained around 20 pounds since last spring. “He doesn’t even look the same,” Swinney remarked, noting that Wesco’s improved strength has translated into better performances on the field, allowing him to finish plays more effectively.

Another receiver who stood out was redshirt sophomore Tyler Brown. After missing much of last season due to injury, Brown is regaining his confidence, and Swinney noted, “His confidence is really getting back to where it was.” Brown had been the team’s leading receiver as a true freshman in 2023, and his progress this spring has caught the eye of his coach.

Transfer wide receiver Tristan Smith, who joined Clemson from FCS Southeast Missouri State, continued to impress in the scrimmage. Swinney praised Smith’s consistency, saying, “He’s flashed all spring,” and added that the receiver’s confidence had grown significantly. Swinney is particularly excited about Smith’s development, anticipating he’ll make a “big jump” from now until fall camp. “He’s had a tough journey, and he’s really happy to be at a place like Clemson,” Swinney said.

As for quarterbacks, Swinney provided an update on backup QB Christopher Vizzina, who has been getting significant first-team reps this spring. “He’s gonna keep getting better,” Swinney said. “He’s a guy where we’ve gotta have him ready, when the moment comes up, to go win a game.” Swinney emphasized the importance of Vizzina’s development as he continues to gain experience with the starting offense.

Starting quarterback Cade Klubnik had a bounce-back performance in the scrimmage after Swinney criticized his lack of intensity following a previous session. “He wasn’t terrible,” Swinney said of Klubnik’s improvement. However, he also noted, “You’ve gotta take advantage of it, when you get a chance to coach your best players hard,” referencing his efforts to keep Klubnik on track after some earlier struggles.

As Clemson heads deeper into spring practice, Swinney remains optimistic about the growth of his key players, especially as they continue to prepare for the season ahead.