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If you’re looking for the next big thing in Clemson’s wide receiver room, circle Naeem Burroughs’ name now. CBS Sports just released its annual list of ACC freshmen to watch for 2026, and the Tigers’ newest playmaker is already turning heads before he’s even played a snap in Death Valley.
“The question isn’t whether these signees will play; it’s which ones are ready to become difference-makers before November,” CBS Sports’ Brad Crawford wrote. “After speaking with sources across the conference, here’s a look at the freshmen who stood out during the spring and generated enough buzz to warrant attention entering the season.”
Burroughs, a dynamic wideout from Jacksonville, wasted no time making his mark after signing with Clemson in December. He enrolled early, eager to get a head start and prove he belongs in a program known for producing elite receivers.
At 5-foot-11 and 185 pounds, Burroughs came to Tigertown as one of the most coveted prospects in the country. The consensus four-star recruit was ranked as high as No. 42 nationally by Rivals and slotted as the eighth-best receiver in the 2026 class, according to the major recruiting services.
“Dabo Swinney said earlier this year that he felt the Tigers’ collection of wideout talent in the 2026 cycle was similar to his 2011 haul, which included future All-ACC star Sammy Watkins,” Crawford wrote. “Clemson’s staff got a long look at Burroughs during the spring, who, like Watkins, hails from Florida and has notable speed and agility.”
Burroughs was a stat machine at The Bolles School in Jacksonville, racking up 163 catches for 3,614 yards and 49 touchdowns. He did damage on special teams as well, adding 649 kickoff return yards, 301 on punts, and even 17 on interception returns. By the time his high school career wrapped, Burroughs had piled up 4,590 all-purpose yards and left no doubt he was ready for the next level.
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This article was originally published on rubbingtherock.com as CBS just named this true freshman as the next big thing at Clemson, and fans should be excited.
