Four-Star 2027 Quarterback Commits to Clemson

Clemson landed one of the nation’s top young quarterbacks on Thursday as 2027 four-star Kharim Hughley‍ of Gainesville (Ga.) High School announced his commitment to the Tigers.

The 5-foot-11, 190-pound signal-caller chose Clemson just days after revealing he had received an offer from the Tigers. Ranked as the No. 4 quarterback in the 2027 class by ESPN, Hughley becomes one of the earliest foundational pieces in a class that’s already starting to build around elite talent.

“Everyone in Gainesville knows Deshaun Watson. He’s a legend regardless of the sport,” Hughley said this week, referencing the former Clemson star and Gainesville alum. “He set a lot of records and still holds a lot of records. He also had a really good college career, and he won a national championship at Clemson.”

Hughley, who threw for 2,543 yards, 22 touchdowns, and just two interceptions last season, has long been aware of the comparisons to Watson. But as he begins his own journey with the Tigers, he made it clear he intends to blaze his own trail.

Hughley’s commitment comes after a standout performance at Dabo Swinney’s high school camp in June—his first time visiting the Clemson campus. His play caught the attention of Swinney and offensive coordinator Garrett Riley, who extended the offer that sealed the Tigers’ push for the Gainesville star.

“I felt I performed the best at that camp than I performed at any camp this season,” Hughley said. “So, I did expect an offer to come eventually.”

Hughley also cited Clemson’s culture and offensive system as deciding factors in his commitment.

“Coach Swinney has set a culture there that is morally similar to my household and kind of how things are run,” he said. “So, it’s more like an at-home feeling, and it’s close. And their offense is extremely similar to the one I run at my school. So, the transition from learning plays would be easier.”

He had considered returning to campus for Clemson’s season opener against LSU, but now that visit could carry new weight, as the future of the Tigers' quarterback room begins to take shape with a Gainesville playmaker leading the way.

Clemson fans know what kind of legacy can come from Gainesville. And while Hughley respects that past, he’s fully focused on writing his own story.