Ranking Dabo Swinney's first-year Clemson QB starters from Deshaun Watson to Cole Stoudt

Clemson football will enter the 2026 season with a first-year starting quarterback, as head coach Dabo Swinney opted against adding a quarterback through the transfer portal. Swinney expressed confidence in his current roster, which includes Christopher Vizzina, Chris Denson, and former walk-on Trent Pearman. Vizzina has one start in three years, while Denson and Pearman have yet to start a game for the Tigers. Clemson also signed two freshmen, Brock Bradley and Tait Reynolds, both rated as three-star recruits.

Under Swinney, Clemson has experienced varying success with first-year starting quarterbacks. Notable successes include Trevor Lawrence in 2018 and Deshaun Watson in 2015, while others such as DJ Uiagalelei in 2022 and Cade Klubnik in 2023 faced challenges. The upcoming season is significant for Clemson following a 7-6 record in 2025, marking the program's second-worst season under Sw