Clemson Loses 6-Foot-3, 226-Pound 4-Star Recruit to New Rival
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The Clemson Tigers gained some good news on the recruiting trail on Saturday before learning that they lost a key commit to a new rival.
Earlier in the day, four-star defensive lineman Seth Tillman chose to commit to Clemson for 2027 over Georgia, Michigan and South Carolina. Tillman could become another big-time pass rusher for the Tigers, something the program has been known for producing under head coach Dabo Swinney.
Minutes after Tillman chose Clemson, the Tigers learned four-star linebacker Roman Igwebuike chose to commit to Notre Dame, per Hayes Fawcett of Rivals. He was choosing between the Fighting Irish, Indiana, Missouri, and Clemson.
"BREAKING: Four-Star LB Roman Igwebuike has Committed to Notre Dame, he tells me for Rivals, Fawcett posted on X. "The 6’3 226 LB chose the Fighting Irish over Indiana, Mizzou, and Clemson.
“'All glory to God!! I will give 110% everyday to bring a natty to my hometown!'"
Notre Dame and Clemson have a bidding rivalry, and the two programs signed an agreement to play 12 games from 2027 to 2038, meaning the Tigers will have to face Igwebuike several times.
Fans on X reacted to Igwebuike choosing Notre Dame.
"Can’t respect any player that chooses to go play a cupcake schedule at Notre Dame every year. Don’t run from the grind young man," wrote a fan.
"It was Always Indiana Or Notre Dame, My Boy Wanted To Come Home. It Easily Would’ve Been Iu For Sure Had There Been A Spot Open For Him, Good Get For The Irish Though," wrote another.
"Mount Carmel HS to Notre Dame was too predictable, another good get for Marcus Freeman," argued a fan.
"Smart decision young man over Clemson and Midzou," wrote another.
"Does he know they can’t even make the playoffs?" asked a fan.
Igwebuike is a native of Chicago. The Tigers were the only program outside of the midwest that were in contention for the young linebacker.
He would have been a great addition for Swinney's defense, but it would have been a long shot for him to choose Clemson over Notre Dame or Indiana.
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