BREAKING: Clemson adds five-star offensive lineman Tristan Leigh

The Clemson Tigers might have fallen last night in the Sugar Bowl to Ohio State, but Dabo Swinney’s staff picked up a sweet recruiting win the day after, landing the signature from five-star offensive tackle Tristan Leigh‍.

Leigh was thought to be a lock for the Oklahoma Sooners, but he announced his pledge to the Tigers 2021 class on the All-American Bowl Declaration Special on NBC earlier today.

"I'd like to thank the good Lord and everybody here-- my friends, family, and coaches. And without further ado, I like to announce that I will be continuing my athletic and academic career at Clemson University,” Leigh said from a local gym in his hometown of Fairfax, Virginia.

He is the No. 4 ranked offensive tackle in the country and top recruit in the state of Virginia according to the 247 Sports Composite. 

Asked about why he chose Clemson, Leigh said it starts with the message.

"Where it starts up top with Coach Swinney and the message he brings out in his players. It's all the family. We win together and do everything together. That just makes us successful."

Leigh said his father, a former Virginia player helped him through the process.

"My dad's best advice has been to stay humble and put your head down and work. He's been big for me, just him going through the process and being there for me,” Leigh noted. “To always, tell me right from wrong-- going through this process, he showed me the ropes for the game of football and I appreciate him for that."

Leigh has the ability to come in and play immediately and most programs and will certainly have a chance to challenge for a spot on Clemson’s offensive front his freshman season.

Leigh’s father said that while his son has two distinct personalities.

“He’s got a good heart, but on the football field, he turns on a switch and it’s like a different person.” 

Leigh picked the Tigers over Oklahoma, Florida, Ohio State, LSU, and others.

We will have more on Leigh’s commitment coming soon.