You never get a second chance to make a first impression, and evidently Irmo WR Donovan Murph (6-3 180) is a fan of Will Rogers. Following day one of Dabo Swinney’s annual high school camp earlier this month, the Class of 2026 prospect received an offer from Clemson.
“My mindset at the end of the day was just going out and having fun,” Murph said. “I wanted to compete against the guys and play live in front of (wide receivers coach) Coach (Tyler) Grisham. I was able to compete and have fun, and it was an awesome experience.”
When working with Grisham, Murph was ready to soak in every bit of information thrown his way.
“Coach Grisham had been to some of my practices, and we talked about the importance of tucking the ball in so the DB can’t get it out,” he said. “I saw that translate when we went to one-on-ones, and it worked well.”
Murph only participated in one of the two sessions, but that time in session two was used to take an unofficial visit. From there, he was extended an offer.
“The first session ended, and I was able to take an unofficial visit during the second session,” Murph explained. “We got around campus, and I saw some new things, and when we got back, Coach (Dabo) Swinney offered me.”
Murph has nearly 30 offers, including South Carolina, Alabama, Auburn, Miami, North Carolina, Mississippi State, Tennessee and others, but his one from Clemson stood out significantly.
“It was really special,” Murph confessed. “He’s the only head coach who has offered me out of all my 23 offers. Knowing that I was one of the first wide receivers in the class of 2026 that was offered, and to see my hard work pay off, it was a blessing.”
The Irmo product recently visited Ole Miss and Alabama and plans other stops this summer, but he’s focused on narrowing down his choices to those that fit him personally.
“I want to see a school that can develop me as a player and a young man,” he said. “I want a place that fits me and a family environment that treats me and my family well.’
When it comes to that family atmosphere, Clemson certainly fits the bill of the kind of school Murph is looking for.
“The family environment stands out the most to me. They are player-based, and you can see that from being around campus. Everyone knows each other, and everybody loves each other. Everyone’s a part of the family.”
That family aspect is developing with Grisham, where the pair’s bond has grown over a strong foundation in their faith.
“We are continuing to build a great relationship,” said Murph. “He’s a faith-centered man and puts God first in everything he does. That aligns with what I do in my life, and we really connect in that way. He teaches me a lot; I’m blessed to have him.”
Murph hasn’t set a timeline for making a decision, but he plans to be committed going into his senior year. Regarding Clemson’s standing with Murph, they rank high on his list.
“Oh yeah, they are definitely at the top,” he said.
Last season Murph caught 67 passes for 1087 yards and a school record 17 touchdowns.