Clemson Running Backs Davidson and Johnson Jr. Shine in Spring Practice

Head coach Dabo Swinney provides updates on the competition at the running back position.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 9:29pm

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Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney has expressed satisfaction with the performance of his running backs during spring practice. Rising sophomore Gideon Davidson is expected to be the primary ball carrier, while transfer Chris Johnson Jr. from SMU has also impressed with his explosive speed.

Why it matters

The running back position is a key part of Clemson's offense, and the competition between Davidson and Johnson Jr. will be crucial in shaping the Tigers' offensive attack for the upcoming season.

The details

Davidson showcased his potential during the spring game, averaging 8.9 yards per carry and cementing his status as the 'number one' running back coming out of spring practice. Meanwhile, Johnson Jr. demonstrated his exceptional speed, having been clocked at 22.3 mph during the 2025 season. The coaching staff is working to develop Johnson Jr. into an every-down back, as he looks to build on his past productivity at SMU.

  • During the Clemson spring game on March 28, 2026
  • In the 2025 season, when Johnson Jr. rushed for 479 yards and 4 touchdowns at SMU

The players

Gideon Davidson

A rising sophomore running back who is expected to be the primary ball carrier for Clemson in the upcoming season.

Chris Johnson Jr.

A transfer running back from SMU, known for his exceptional speed and explosiveness.

Dabo Swinney

The head coach of the Clemson football team.

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What they’re saying

“Gideon is number one coming out of it.”

— Dabo Swinney, Head Coach

“CJ's had a great spring as well. He is going to need a sizeable summer. He's made some progress, just with his body since he got here. He has made some improvement.”

— Dabo Swinney, Head Coach

“He is working his way physically where we need him to be this fall, so he can be a little bit more of an every-down type back and not just a situational guy. And that is important to him. He wants to be able to do that.”

— Dabo Swinney, Head Coach

What’s next

The upcoming fall camp will be crucial in determining how Swinney utilizes both Davidson and Johnson Jr. and shapes the Tigers' offensive attack for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The competition between the experienced Gideon Davidson and the explosive Chris Johnson Jr. will be a key storyline to follow as Clemson looks to build a balanced and dynamic backfield for the upcoming season.