Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney likes what he’s seen from Tigers’ RBs

Clemson football wrapped up spring with more clarity in the backfield, and it’s clear who set the tone over the past few weeks.

Gideon Davidson made the most of his opportunity, putting together a strong spring that carried over into the Orange and White game. The sophomore was efficient and explosive, averaging 8.9 yards per carry and showing he can handle a larger workload heading into the season.

“He’s had a great spring,” head coach Dabo Swinney said after the spring game. “He is (number) one coming out of it.”

Even with Davidson taking control of the top spot, plenty of attention has been on Chris Johnson Jr., the transfer addition from SMU. He was the only offensive pickup from the portal, and his speed immediately stands out. Although his spring game numbers were modest, he flashed big-play ability with a 10-yard run that highlighted just how quickly he can hit another gear.

Johnson brings a strong track background and proven production from his time at SMU, where he averaged over seven yards per carry and contributed in the passing game. That kind of versatility is part of why Clemson brought him in.

Still, there’s another step the staff wants to see.

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

Swinney knows what Johnson looks like at his best. He pointed back to last season’s matchup, when Johnson totaled 99 all-purpose yards against Clemson, including a long run, a big catch and a touchdown that helped seal the game.

Now, the focus is on building him into a more complete option. Clemson wants him ready to handle a bigger role, not just as a situational threat but as someone who can stay on the field consistently.

“I was really proud of him,” Swinney added. “He actually came back from spring a few pounds heavier than where he was. 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.”

Clemson’s running back room is looking good heading into the season.

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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney talks running backs after spring