STRecruiting: The Tigers are hoping that family bonds will help in their recruitment of Kansas OL Reece Wilmes

Every visit tells a different chapter of an evolving story. For 2028 offensive tackle Reece Wilmes (6-5, 285) of Lawrence Free State (KS), that story is one of a budding affection for Clemson.

His visit for the Miami game certainly strengthened that.

“It was awesome getting back to Clemson for a primetime game and experiencing the atmosphere,” Wilmes said. “Being around the coaches, players, and fans again just reinforced how special the environment was.”

Wilmes is no stranger to campus. His older brother, Braden, is currently a freshman tackle for the Tigers, which puts the younger sibling in a unique recruiting position. Not only is he getting a sales pitch from the staff, but he’s getting an inside look at what it truly means to develop at Clemson.

“It’s been really cool having my brother there and getting to see his experience firsthand,” the Kansas native explained. “It gives me an inside look at Clemson and definitely helps me understand the program and what the experience is like from a player’s perspective.”

While Wilmes has known offensive line coach Matt Luke for some time, their bond continues to grow stronger. Wilmes likes the fact that Luke cares about his players and is also willing to help them improve.

“My relationship with Coach Luke has continued to grow every time we talk and get around each other,” Wilmes confessed. “I really appreciate how genuine he is with me and how he pushes me to keep getting better as an offensive lineman.”

Wilmes plans to return to Clemson for the South Carolina game, potentially making two game-day trips this fall. Kansas, Indiana, Iowa, are also in the mix for his services, and he’s scheduling visits with those teams later this year.

His recruitment with Clemson is heating up, and it doesn’t hurt Clemson to have someone on the inside telling him what it’s like to step into the program, either.

“It definitely strengthened Clemson’s position in my recruitment,” Wilmes recalled following the Miami game. “Every time I’m there, I find more things I like about the program and the people there.”

Wilmes has also been to games this season at Kansas and Arkansas. He also has offers from Penn State, Oklahoma State, Missouri, Northwestern, Ohio State, Oregon, Iowa State, Arkansas, Kansas, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Indiana.