Chris Denson may be new to Clemson, but he’s already turning heads.
Since arriving on campus in January as an early enrollee, the freshman quarterback from Florida has quickly made a strong impression on offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Garrett Riley. Described as “electric” and “unique” in the spring, Denson’s development has continued to stand out heading into fall camp.
“There’s certainly a lot of development that he needs. But this guy is different,” Riley said at Clemson’s recent Media Outing. “He’s electric. He can certainly do some things when he takes off and runs or creates.”
Riley noted how much was thrown at Denson during spring practice, but the young quarterback handled it with poise well beyond his years. That calm demeanor, according to Riley, is part of what separates him.
“I mean, the guy is poised. The guy wants to be great. He wants to learn,” Riley said. “So, I think he’s made of the right stuff, and he’s just going to have to keep chipping away at his development. But there’s certainly already been some flashes of, this guy’s got something to him.”
Denson, ranked as high as No. 14 among dual-threat quarterbacks in the 2025 class by Rivals, was a standout at Plant City (Fla.) High School. He threw for 4,813 yards and 55 touchdowns over his high school career, while also rushing for 1,940 yards and 16 scores.
As a senior, he posted eye-popping numbers—completing 65.4% of his passes for 2,334 yards and 28 touchdowns with just three interceptions. He added another 1,159 yards and 12 rushing touchdowns on the ground, averaging over 10 yards per carry.
But stats aside, Riley continues to rave most about Denson’s mindset.
“He’s a poised kid,” Riley said. “He’s not rattled, he’s not fazed by much. If he is, he doesn’t show it. I think…
Source link : https://clemsonwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/college/clemson/football/2025/07/19/clemson-football-garrett-riley-chris-denson/85290628007/
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Publish date : 2025-07-19 16:49:00
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