Clemson lands in top schools for one of top defensive backs in 2028 class

Clemson remains in the mix for one of the top defensive backs in the 2028 recruiting class, even without extending a scholarship offer.

Four-star safety CJ Craig-James of Parker, Alabama, revealed his top 12 schools on Monday. Clemson joined Auburn, Alabama, Florida, Notre Dame, Cal, Miami, Ohio State, Oregon, Georgia, Vanderbilt and LSU on the list.

The Tigers’ inclusion is notable because Craig-James has not yet visited campus and is still waiting on an offer from Clemson. However, the relationship between the two sides has been strong enough to keep the Tigers firmly in contention. A visit could become more likely once the college football season gets underway.

The 6-foot-3, 190-pound defensive back has picked up nearly four dozen scholarship offers, with the majority arriving over the past several months. According to the Rivals Industry Rankings, Craig-James is the No. 83 overall prospect in the 2028 class, the No. 8 safety nationally and the No. 6 player in Alabama.

Clemson makes the cut for elite high priority 2028 quarterback target

📸 Coley Cleary, USA TODAY NETWORK https://t.co/sDdbS04ePppic.twitter.com/yM27ghxp6K

— Clemson Wire (@Clemson_Wire) July 22, 2026

While Clemson has yet to offer Craig-James, the Tigers have already targeted several top safeties in the cycle, including four-star prospects Dion Edwards and Giovanni Tuggle. Recruiting at the position remains active, and Craig-James is another highly regarded name to watch as the 2028 class continues to take shape.

Where’s 🏠?? @SWiltfong_@Hayesfawcett3@AHParkerFootba1@CoachWarren23@Rivals@RivalsHS@DemetricDWarren@LemmingReportpic.twitter.com/qoG6Bm0635

— CJ Craig-James 4⭐️ 2028 (@CJ2Sports2028) July 20, 2026

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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson lands in top schools for one of top defensive backs in 2028 class