How youthful talent infusion could restore Clemson football to 'Wide Receiver U'

“Wide Receiver U” has become more like “Wide Receiver Who?”

After a decade of building a reputation for sending wide receivers to the NFL like clockwork, Clemson has fallen off the pace of late.

Between 2010 and 2021, Clemson had 12 wide receivers drafted, including three first-round picks between 2013 and 2017. But the 2023 NFL Draft is likely to be the second consecutive draft without a Clemson wide receiver being selected, which isn’t surprising given the recent lack of productivity. The Tigers’ leaders in receptions the past two seasons have posted the lowest totals since 2010.

A youth movement already is afoot at the position, as evidenced by the Tigers’ depth chart for their Orange Bowl clash against Tennessee last December. Freshman Antonio Williams was the team’s leading receiver last season and Williams, along with fellow freshman Adam Randall, started against the Volunteers.

Another freshman – Cole Turner – also emerged late last season. He played in three of the Tigers’ last four games, posted the team’s only 100-yard receiving game of the season and averaged more than 20 yards on his eight receptions.

All three could be starters this fall, but the Tigers also may benefit from an infusion of talent courtesy of Clemson’s 2023 recruiting class. Four players in the 26-member class are wide receivers and all could help restore Clemson’s “Wide Receiver U” reputation sooner than later.

It’s imperative that this group is productive, what with Clemson reportedly targeting only one wide receiver – Aiken’s Braylon Staley – in the Class of 2024.

Here’s a look at the rookie quartet:

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Four-star receiver Noble Johnson of Rockwall, Texas

Johnson may have the best chance of earning early playing time for a couple of reasons – first, as a midyear enrollee he’ll be the only freshman receiver participating in spring practice; second, at 6-foot-2, 205 pounds, Johnson fits the mold of the majority of Clemson receivers that are in the NFL.

Johnson made a big impression on Clemson coach Dabo Swinney while attending Swinney’s camp.

“He dominated, just absolutely put on a show,” Swinney said. “He’s a dynamic guy, explosive with great ball skills.”

Three-star receiver Tyler Brown of Greenville

Brown was a standout at nearby Greenville High who improved every year.

“He’s an example and a reminder of why we don’t offer freshmen and sophomores,” Swinney said. “It’s a developmental game and this kid has gotten better and better and better. He put on a show this year.”The 5-11, 170-pound Brown became Clemson’s third Greenville High signee in two years after a senior season that saw him produce 59 receptions for 937 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Four-star athlete Ronan Hanafin of Burlington, Massachusetts

Hanafin is Clemson’s first recruit from the Bay State since Christian Wilkins in 2015.

“We don’t go up to Massachusetts often, but when we do, we get a great one,” Swinney said.

Hanafin won’t arrive until the summer, but the 6-3, 210-pounder may find his way on the field in short order.

“He could literally play anywhere, but we really love what he brings to the table as a receiver,” Swinney said. “I’m excited to get my hands on him. He’s a big-bodied guy and a great competitor.”

And versatile; during his prep career he played cornerback, receiver, linebacker and safety while also returning punts.

Three-star athlete Misun “Tink” Kelly of Central

A product of nearby Daniel High, Kelly is another multi-faceted player who gives the Tigers plenty of options.

“We’re going to start him at receiver and cross-train him as a defensive back and see where we go from there,” Swinney said.

Swinney also compared the 5-10, 170-pound Kelly to former Daniel standout DeAndre Hopkins.

“DeAndre was really highly recruited, but came to college and got locked in, and I see Tink in that same regard,” Swinney said. “It doesn’t matter where you put him, he’s the best player.”

The numbers support Swinney’s contention – Kelly scored touchdowns five different ways as a senior: receiving, rushing, fumble return, interception return and kickoff return.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Newcomers may be big help in restoring 'Wide Receiver U' at Clemson