Ken Ruinard-Imagn Images

Dabo Swinney Adds Former Clemson QB To Coaching Staff: Report

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By J.C. Shelton | Last updated Feb 24, 2025 6:48 PM ET

Head coach Dabo Swinney is reportedly adding a former Clemson quarterback to his coaching staff ahead of the 2025 season.

The Tigers made a huge splash this offseason by adding respected defensive coordinator Tom Allen to replace Wes Goodwin.

And offensive coordinator Garrett Riley is slated to return after helping lead star quarterback Cade Klubnik to a career year, as The Tigers (10-4) secured an ACC championship and College Football Playoff appearance.

It appears Riley will have some additional help from a familiar name, as former Tigers quarterback Hunter Helms is preparing to join the staff in an intern role after playing his final season at Rhode Island, according to a report on Monday from Chapel Fowler of the State Newspaper.

Helms initially joined Clemson as a walk-on in 2020 and appeared in nine games over four seasons, totaling 85 yards with two touchdown passes. The West Columbia, South Carolina, native transferred to Rhode Island before the 2024 season and helped lead the Rams to an 11-3 season and FCS Playoffs appearance.

Swinney is sticking to his trend at Clemson by hiring his former players to roles on the Tiger' staff.

Ben Boulware, a former Clemson linebacker, coaches his former position while Swinney's son and former wide receiver, Drew Swinney, serves as an assistant receivers coach. Those are only two examples on a staff stocked with former Tigers.

And the future appears to be bright for Swinney and Co. after bouncing back from a 9-4 season in 2023. The Tigers return the most production of any team in the nation, per ESPN, and could very well find themselves in contention for a national title in 2025.

Clemson will open the season at home against LSU on Aug. 30.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: