Clemson has worked its way into the top five with highly prized OT Kiyaunta Goodwin (6-8 305) of Charlestown, IIN, and next for the Tigers in the recruiting process is to get Goodwin in for a visit this summer. Goodwin recently identified his top five as Clemson, Alabama, Michigan State, Ohio State and Kentucky.
Clemson offensive coordinator Tony Elliott and offensive line coach Robbie Caldwell are recruiting Goodwin for the Tigers. They offered in late February and have made up a lot of ground on the other contenders.
“(Caldwell and Elliott) told me I’m the top tackle on their board and they want to make me a Tiger,” Goodwin said. “I really like Coach Caldwell. He’s really down-to-earth and honest. We had been talking for a while and there were some things I needed to do academically. Once I handled that part, Coach Caldwell made the offer to me with coach (Dabo) Swinney on the phone.”
Goodwin said the feedback he’s gotten back from the Clemson staff after a review of his film has been positive.
“They said they love my length and athletic ability,” Goodwin said. “They feel like I’m a true tackle. My strength is my mentality. I feel like I’ve got a lot of work to do. I’m going to keep outworking everyone.”
Moving forward with his recruiting, Goodwin said his plan is to visit Clemson before the start of his season.
“I love Clemson. I really like the way the culture appears to be there,” he said. “I’m excited to get on campus and see things there. I feel like Clemson would be a good fit, but I need to get around the staff and meet the players. I want a coach that can develop me and a plan for my success in the classroom.”
Goodwin has come a long way in making himself a major college prospect, the #1 recruit in Indiana and the #5 offensive tackle nationally in the 247Sports Composite. He once weighed north of 400 pounds. He said his work ethic is evident in how he worked to get in better shape, and the school that lands him will see that.
“Someone who will work tirelessly to get better both on and off the field and solidify the left tackle spot,” he said.
Other Monday Notes:
- Hammond OL Drew Bobo has set an official visit with Georgia Tech for June 11th.
- USC and Clemson target TE Oscar Delp has set an official visit to Florida for June 11th.
- Clemson target CB Ryan Turner of Hollywood, FL was offered by Louisville.
