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One of the most interesting defensive backs to watch for Clemson this season is Corian Gipson, a talented redshirt freshman whose journey has been defined by both potential and perseverance. According to head coach Dabo Swinney, 2025 could be the year Gipson finally makes his mark—thanks to newfound health and growing maturity.
When asked about the next steps in Gipson’s progression, Swinney was direct about the challenges Gipson faced last year.
“Just be out there. Last year, he was never healthy. He just kind of stayed the same all year. He didn't have confidence. He was not healthy. He was just kind of working his way back.”
Things changed in the spring, as Gipson turned a corner, literally and figuratively. Swinney noticed a major shift in Gipson’s approach and ability.
“I really saw a light come on this spring. It's the first time since he's gotten here that I actually saw him healthy.”
Now, with a clean bill of health and renewed confidence, the expectations are simple but important.
“The next step for him is to get out there and play with the confidence that he's got to have. I think to have that confidence, you've got to be healthy. He feels great. He looks great. He really grew a lot in this offseason as far as just his maturity. So, he's just got to go do it.”
For Swinney and the Clemson staff, Gipson’s talent has never been in question. What matters most is that he’s finally ready to put it all together.
“He's super talented. We all know that. This is really the first time that he's been the best version of himself. This is the first time that I think he's a complete player. There's been something missing since the day he got here. He had knowledge. He wasn't healthy. He's so much more knowledgeable. Now he's just got to show up and do the work every day and at a consistent level.”
If Gipson can stay healthy and maintain his confidence, Clemson fans could see a breakout year from the young defensive back and an extra piece for the Tigers’ secondary in 2025.
