CSN Dabo Swinney Camp QB Nuggets: 2028 Standouts Emerge in Clemson’s First Major Look
Clemson’s quarterback camp under Dabo Swinney delivered serious heat this week, giving the Tigers their clearest early window into the 2028 class. Multiple high-upside arms rotated through, with several already showing why Clemson’s staff has been building relationships for months. Accuracy, arm talent, athleticism, and scheme fit were all on display — and a few names separated themselves.
Trace Hawkins (2028, Calhoun, GA)
The clear headliner of the session. Hawkins has been on campus multiple times and reportedly turned in the most complete workout of the day — smooth, poised, accurate, and effortless in the pocket. Not a pure cannon, but plenty of zip and elite command. His budding connection with Tajh Boyd and the Clemson offense feels natural.
CSN Take: Hawkins checks every box for a “Clemson quarterback.” Polished, high-football-IQ, and a natural fit. If the Tigers pull the trigger on an early offer, he’s firmly in the mix at the top.
Trey Wright (2028, Frisco Lone Star, TX)
A legitimate big-name national recruit who lived up to the billing. Strong arm, natural mover, and impressive in every phase. Wright already visited Clemson over Easter, spent quality time with Chad Morris and Tajh Boyd, and left saying the offense aligns perfectly with what he does best. Offers from Michigan, Oklahoma, North Carolina, and others.
CSN Take: Wright is the splashy, high-ceiling target Clemson has been intentional with. This wasn’t a casual camp invite — he’s a priority.
Carter Zingelmann (2028, Coppell, TX)
The big-bodied prototype at 6-foot-4 with a legitimate cannon. Steady and solid throughout the workout, Zingelmann flashed the size and arm strength that turn heads in college football. Already drawing interest from Georgia, Michigan, Oklahoma, Texas Tech, and more.
CSN Take: When Clemson wants prototypical size and arm talent, Zingelmann is exactly what they envision.
Hudson Tomcheck (2028, Southlake Carroll, TX)
Another invited Texas quarterback with a 6-foot-4 frame and standout accuracy. Tomcheck made throws look easy and clean all session. Current interest includes Baylor, SMU, TCU, and Houston.CSN Take: Still more of an evaluation piece right now, but Clemson clearly wanted a closer look — and liked what they saw.Nate Watkins (2028, Ocoee, FL)
The ultimate sleeper who may have helped himself the most. Observers raved about his arm strength — possibly the strongest of the entire group — and left asking, “Who is this kid?” Only Bethune-Cookman has offered so far.
CSN Take: Stock is rising fast. Clemson now has him firmly on the radar, and he could explode onto the national scene quickly.Bottom LineClemson is in full evaluation mode on its first 2028 quarterback offers, and this camp provided excellent clarity. Top Watch List Right Now:
- Trace Hawkins — The safe, polished, high-floor Clemson fit
- Trey Wright — The explosive national name with real momentum
- Carter Zingelmann — Size and arm upside personified
- Hudson Tomcheck — Accurate big-frame Texan
- Nate Watkins — The cannon-armed sleeper ready to blow up
CSN Read: Hawkins and Wright currently sit as the two biggest names to watch for Clemson in this cycle. Dabo and staff have their work cut out for them, but the early returns from camp are promising. Stay locked to CSN for the latest on offer decisions and future visits.
