The transfer portal has officially opened, generating excitement around potential changes to the Clemson football program. One of the key discussions among fans and analysts is whether head coach Dabo Swinney will seek a new quarterback to succeed Cade Klubnik, who will be departing the program in 2026.
Among the names making headlines is Aidan Chiles, a quarterback currently transferring from Michigan State. Chiles, a junior, began his collegiate career at Oregon State, where he played behind DJ Uiagalelei, a former Clemson star, before moving to Michigan State for the 2024 season.
Recent communication with Chiles revealed that he has not received any outreach from the Clemson coaching staff thus far. Clemson is in a transitional phase, particularly with the recent departure of offensive coordinator Garrett Riley, who parted ways with the team on Monday. Former offensive coordinator Chad Morris is a leading candidate to rejoin the staff, and it is expected that he will have significant influence over the quarterback decision moving forward.
In his performances, Chiles showcased his potential, throwing for 1,392 yards across nine games this season, with 10 touchdown passes and three interceptions. Additionally, he demonstrated his versatility by rushing for 227 yards and scoring six additional touchdowns. His standout performance in 2024 included over 2,300 passing yards and 13 touchdowns, highlighting his growth as a player. Notably, 247 Sports has ranked him as the 10th-best quarterback in the current transfer portal landscape.
As the Tigers navigate this period of change, fans remain hopeful that any new acquisitions can bolster the team’s performance and maintain its competitive edge. The upcoming decisions in the transfer portal and coaching staff could significantly shape the future of Clemson football.