Clemson Tigers Could Have an Unexpected 1,000-Yard Weapon

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The Clemson Tigers haven't typically utilized the transfer portal, but Dabo Swinney decided to finally buck that trend over the winter.

Swinney brought in some very intriguing additions in the portal, and perhaps the most notable of all was former SMU running back Chris Johnson Jr.

Johnson is an explosive weapon who rushed for 479 yards and four touchdowns while averaging 7.1 yards per carry last season. He also logged 17 catches for 180 yards and a score.

In fact, one of Johnson's best performances of 2025 came against Clemson, when he carried the ball six times for 59 yards and a touchdown. Additionally, he hauled in four receptions for 40 yards.

Now, Johnson will be jockeying with Gideon Davidson for touches in the Tigers' backfield, and while Davidson may be the slight favorite to win the starting job, it's hard to ignore the unique ability that Johnson brings.

In fact, redshirt freshman running back David Eziomume recently raved about Johnson's speed following a race.

“He just kind of took off,” Eziomume said, via TigerNet. “I was like, ‘Whoa, that 4.2 was real.’ That man is fast. I ain’t going to lie to you. It’s as true as they say.”

We don't have to question if that translates on to the field, either, but Clemson already saw Johnson's athleticism with its own eyes last October.

Johnson began his collegiate career at Miami in 2023 and spent two years with the Hurricanes before transferring to SMU.

The Fort Lauderdale, Fl. native didn't really get a chance to showcase his talents until last season, when he displayed very impressive efficiency.

The Tigers are known for being able to develop offensive talent, so Clemson could be the perfect landing spot for Johnson.

And while the spotlight is on wide receivers T.J. Moore and Bryant Wesco as far as potential 1,000-yard playmakers, Johnson's name should be added to the list, as well.

Johnson is not only one of the biggest sleepers in the ACC, but perhaps in the entire country heading into the 2026 college football campaign.

His explosiveness is undeniable, and he could be the exact ingredient that Swinney and offensive coordinator Chad Morris need this fall.

All Tigers fans should have their eyes on Johnson going into the season opener against LSU, and it wouldn't be shocking if he ultimately supplants Davidson as the top weapon in Clemson's backfield.

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