Clemson lands 5-star Carman

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An Early Signing Day shocker fell Clemson's way Wednesday when the nation's No. 1-rated offensive tackle pledged to the Tigers, following a mid-morning phone call to head coach Dabo Swinney.

Fairfield (OH) five-star lineman Jackson Carman, who officially visited Clemson earlier this month, chose the Tigers over Ohio State and USC. The Buckeyes had been the longtime favorite, and in fact entering Wednesday industry sentiment was largely favoring the Buckeyes to land Carman.

Carman, also billed as the No. 1-rated football recruit in the state of Ohio, is rated 14th nationally overall regardless of position.

"As the time of my recruitment comes toward a resolution, it marks the exposition of a new chapter in my life," said Carman Wednesday. "Without further ado, I will be committing to Clemson University."

He fills a pressing need for the Tigers, which set out to sign two offensive tackles in this class. In addition, earlier Wednesday veteran junior guard Taylor Hearn told Tigerillustrated.com he would be bypassing his senior season to enter the NFL Draft.

Clemson now has three five-star commits in a class that entered the day ranked ninth nationally in star rating average. Tigerillustrated.com also projects the Tigers to land Butler (Ga.) back Lyn-J Dixon and Clemmons (N.C.) five-star defensive end K.J. Henry today.

Today is the first of two Signing Days for the 2017-2018 recruiting cycle, so Clemson is not yet done with its class, as numerous official visits will occur in January, followed by additional signings for the recruiting class on National Signing Day, February 7.

Tigerillustrated.com will have more on Carman's decision later today.

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