The Elite Retreat on March 8, 2025, is shaping up to be a pivotal recruiting event for Clemson University’s football program. Held in Clemson, South Carolina, this annual gathering is designed to showcase the Tigers’ culture, facilities, and vision to some of the nation’s top high school football prospects, primarily targeting the class of 2026. Here’s a preview of what to expect this weekend based on available insights and ongoing recruiting developments.
Event Overview
The Elite Retreat is not just a recruiting visit; it’s a strategic opportunity for Clemson’s coaching staff, led by head coach Dabo Swinney, to solidify relationships with elite prospects and potentially secure early commitments. The event typically features in-depth tours of the campus and football facilities, interactions with current players and coaches, and a deep dive into what makes Clemson a unique program—emphasizing its family-like atmosphere and track record of success. With the 2025 recruiting class largely wrapped up, attention has shifted to 2026, making this weekend a critical juncture for laying the groundwork for the next cycle.
Key Prospects to Watch
Several high-profile recruits have confirmed their attendance, and their visits could significantly influence Clemson’s recruiting trajectory:
Zaden Krempin (Four-Star Offensive Tackle): A standout offensive lineman, Krempin’s visit is generating buzz. Posts on X and recruiting reports suggest he views the Elite Retreat as a major step in his decision-making process. Clemson’s offensive line coach, Matt Luke, is likely to play a key role in highlighting how Krempin could anchor the Tigers’ future line. His impressions from this weekend could move Clemson up his list of contenders.
Shavar Young Jr. (Four-Star Cornerback): Already committed to Clemson since July 2024, Young’s presence at the Elite Retreat reinforces his loyalty despite interest from programs like Michigan. His participation signals Clemson’s success in locking in defensive talent early and could influence other defensive prospects in attendance.
Ryan Mosley (Four-Star Wide Receiver): Hailing from Carrollton, Georgia, Mosley has visited Clemson multiple times and sees the Elite Retreat as a chance to further evaluate the program. Known for his versatility on both sides of the ball, his potential fit in Clemson’s offensive scheme will be a focal point. He’s expected to release a top-six list this spring, making this visit pivotal.
Kaden Gebhardt (Four-Star Defender): A recent offer from Clemson in January, Gebhardt from Olentangy, Ohio, is making the trip for the Elite Retreat and has an official visit scheduled for May. Clemson has quickly emerged as a contender for his services, and this weekend could solidify their position.
Jared Curtis (Five-Star Quarterback): After decommitting from Georgia in October 2024, Curtis, a top-ranked quarterback from Nashville, Tennessee, is a major target. His attendance isn’t fully confirmed, but Clemson is in the mix alongside schools like Auburn, Alabama, and Ohio State. A strong showing at the Elite Retreat could position Clemson as a frontrunner for this game-changing talent.
What’s at Stake
Clemson’s recruiting strategy under Swinney has historically relied on events like the Elite Retreat to build momentum. With only a few 2026 commitments so far—such as Young—the Tigers are looking to capitalize on this weekend to add more blue-chip prospects. The event’s timing, just weeks after National Signing Day for the 2025 class, allows the staff to shift focus fully to 2026, a class that could define Clemson’s competitiveness in the evolving landscape of college football.
The Tigers are also navigating a competitive recruiting environment. Programs like Georgia, Alabama, and Ohio State are vying for many of the same players, and Clemson’s ability to differentiate itself—through personal connections, its storied tradition, and the promise of development—will be crucial. For instance, landing a quarterback like Curtis could signal a new era of offensive firepower, while bolstering the offensive line with talents like Krempin and the secondary with players like Gebhardt could maintain Clemson’s defensive prowess.
Additional Context
The Elite Retreat roster continues to grow, with other prospects like four-star defensive lineman Kameron Cody from Savannah, Georgia, also reportedly attending. The event’s fluid nature means last-minute additions or changes are possible, but the anticipated star power suggests it will live up to its billing as a gathering of elite talent. Beyond March 8, many attendees are expected to return for official visits in late May, indicating that this weekend is just the opening act in a longer recruitment play.
Looking Ahead
Expect social media, particularly X, to light up with updates from recruits and analysts as the weekend unfolds. The sentiment from prospects like Krempin, who recently spoke about the visit’s importance, suggests optimism and anticipation. For Clemson fans, the Elite Retreat offers a glimpse into the program’s future, with the potential to secure commitments or at least narrow the field for top targets. By Sunday, March 9, the recruiting landscape for 2026 could look markedly different depending on how the Tigers perform off the field this Saturday.
