STRecruiting: Clemson has its 2028 quarterback in Trace Hawkins of Georgia

Nothing like the first brick in the wall of your 2028 recruiting class being a quarterback. Clemson, on Thursday night, publicly landed its first commitment for the next recruiting season in QB Trace Hawkins (6-1 185) of Calhoun, GA.

Hawkins was one of two quarterbacks heavily pursued by Clemson from the spring to now, the other being Trey Wright of Frisco, TX. Hawkins was the first to accept the Clemson offer when he notified Dabo Swinney and Chad Morris earlier in the week.

Hawkins made his first visit to Clemson last November for the Duke game. Tajh Boyd played a major role in cultivating the relationship, prompting the Georgia prospect to return for multiple visits in the spring. He returned for a camp in June and performed well in front of Swinney and Morris, and the offer soon followed.

Last season, Hawkins passed for 2442 yards with 24 touchdowns and three interceptions. After watching the Tigers’ offense in the spring game, he felt the Morris system was one suited for him.

“It’s fast-paced and puts a lot on the quarterback, which I like,” Hawkins said. “They spread the field and give playmakers chances to make plays. I think it’s an offense that fits my skill set.”

Hawkins is well aware of the current quarterback situation at Clemson. Veteran Christopher Vizzina and freshman Tait Reynolds are competing for the job. The fact that a true freshman like Reynolds has earned an early shot at the job got Hawkins’ attention.

“Yeah, seeing Tait Reynolds compete early shows they give everyone a chance,” Hawkins said. “That makes it more interesting because you know you can come in and compete.”

Some of the other offers for Hawkins were LSU, Vanderbilt, Kentucky, Virginia Tech, Auburn, Duke, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, North Carolina, Cincinnati, Iowa State and SMU.