Clemson has added its first transfer portal piece on the offensive side of the ball, landing SMU running back Chris Johnson Jr. while he was on a visit to campus.
Johnson becomes the first portal commitment for new offensive coordinator Chad Morris and the 10th overall transfer addition for the Tigers during this recent stretch. He is also the second portal player to commit on Sunday, joining Howard defensive end CJ Wesley.
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Known for his speed, Johnson brings a different element to a Clemson running back room that already includes rising sophomore Godeon Davidson. Listed at 6-foot, 185 pounds, Johnson is regarded as one of the faster backs in the country and has flashed big-play ability at the collegiate level.
During the 2025 season with SMU, Johnson rushed for 479 yards and four touchdowns while averaging more than seven yards per carry. He added 17 receptions for 180 yards and a score, giving him five total touchdowns in his first season with double-digit touches. Against Clemson specifically, Johnson logged six carries for 59 yards and a touchdown and caught four passes for 40 yards in the Mustangs’ win at Death Valley. He reportedly reached a top speed of 22.3 miles per hour during the season.
Johnson began his college career at Miami, signing as part of the 2023 recruiting class after previously being on Clemson’s radar out of high school. He redshirted during his first season and saw limited action in 2024, carrying the ball six times for 31 yards while also contributing on kickoff returns.
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Johnson has two seasons of eligibility remaining and joins wide receiver Tristan Smith as the only traditional offensive transfer portal additions for Clemson across the past two cycles.
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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson’s first offensive player in transfer portal Chris Johnson Jr.
