Dabo Swinney’s Top 10 Assistant Coaching Hires: No. 9 Robbie Caldwell
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Clemson’s transformation from a program with promise to a national powerhouse didn’t happen overnight. It was built on vision, culture, recruiting, and above all, great coaching. While Dabo Swinney’s own leadership has defined the Tigers' identity in the midseason of 2008, it’s his assistant hires that have often provided the strategic edge needed to reach the sport’s summit.
Here’s a ranked look at Swinney’s 10 best assistant coaching hires during his Clemson tenure:
No. 9 Robbie Caldwell | Offensive Line Coach (2011–2021)
Robbie Caldwell wasn’t always the flashiest assistant on Clemson’s staff, but he was one of the most trusted. Hired in 2011 after a stint as Vanderbilt’s head coach, Caldwell brought decades of SEC experience and a calming, old-school presence to the Tigers’ offensive line room. His folksy demeanor and sense of humor made him a beloved figure within the program, but behind the charm was a technician who maximized his players and brought consistency to a unit that often worked under the radar.
Over the next decade, Caldwell helped solidify the trenches during Clemson’s ascent to college football dominance. During his time as an on-the-field coach, the Tigers' Caldwell joined Clemson as its offensive line coach in 2011, helping the Tigers go 131-21 with eleven 10-plus win seasons, seven ACC titles, four appearances in the national championship game, and two national titles.
While the Tigers never quite became known for dominant offensive line play during Caldwell’s tenure, they were rarely a liability—and that’s saying something given the elite competition they faced annually. Caldwell developed multiple All-ACC linemen, helped anchor the run game for stars like Travis Etienne, and provided the protection needed for Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence to thrive. More importantly, he mentored and molded young men, serving as a vital culture carrier during Swinney’s golden era.
When Caldwell’s role shifted after the 2021 season, the Furman Athletic Hall of Famer became Clemson’s Director of High School Relations, keeping his steady presence within the program.
Dabo Swinney’s 10 best assistant coaching hires:
