Clemson football hosted its annual spring game on Saturday afternoon, giving fans a first look at emerging talent and new faces on the roster. One player, in particular, stole the spotlight: Tristan Smith.
The wide receiver, a transfer from Southeast Missouri State, racked up nearly 1,000 receiving yards last season before making the move to Clemson. While some questioned whether his production would carry over to the Power Five level, Saturday’s performance put those doubts to rest — and then some.
Smith dazzled throughout the scrimmage, making highlight-reel plays and quickly winning over the Clemson faithful. He caught five passes for 137 yards and a touchdown, standing out more than any other newcomer on the field.
“Tristan Smith is having himself a day,” posted Grayson Mann on X (formerly Twitter), sharing video clips of Smith’s touchdown grab and another acrobatic reception. “Clemson snagged a good one in the portal.”
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That praise carries extra weight considering how rarely head coach Dabo Swinney turns to the transfer portal. Swinney has been famously hesitant to embrace the portal era, often insisting that his roster already had the talent it needed. But Smith’s breakout performance might be the case that changes his mind.
At 6-foot-5, Smith brings an ideal mix of size, speed, and strong hands, making him a potential cornerstone in the Tigers’ offense. He looked like a natural fit in the system and could become one of the most dangerous weapons in the ACC — or even the country — this fall.
If Saturday was any indication, Tristan Smith is ready to make a major impact in 2025. And after seeing him shine, it might be time to start buying stock in Clemson football again.
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