Saints are one of the NFL's youngest teams after 2026 draft
After the 2026 draft, the Saints are now one of the NFL's youngest teams.
Dabo Swinney emphasizes Clemson's unique approach in the NIL era, focusing on culture and player retention rather than just financial incentives. He believes their developmental program sets them apart from others.
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Like many college programs across the country, Dabo Swinney and Clemson football are looking for their edge in the chaos that is the NIL era.
While schools are looking under every rock and couch cushion to find funding for lucrative NIL packages, Swinney spoke to the Tigers' zag approach that he believes works for them.
"Our process is different. But thatās why we lead the nation in retention. Our process is proven," Swinney said on Greg McElroy's Always College Football podcast. "We have a culture, and I think itās incredible. Weāre a developmental program. Now, the world has changed. There are 105 scholarships now⦠weāve signed 16 portal guys in six years. But you have to use it now. Thatās not a source for us, but itās a resource.ā
Swinney still believes in the magic of infrastructure and continuity rather than the power of blank checks.
āIām not willing to compromise or sacrifice having a strong culture and getting away from whatās always won here, and that purpose and everyone being aligned with a purpose. Thereās an alignment here. And again, thereās a price. Thereās a transaction that has to happen, but if you get alignment right with the people who fit your purpose, who fit the people, who fit the place, who are passionate and really value what you value within your program, all that other stuff will work out and make sense.ā
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This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire:
Dabo Swinney's approach to NIL focuses on maintaining a strong culture and player retention rather than relying solely on financial incentives.
Clemson has signed 16 portal players in the last six years under Dabo Swinney's leadership.
Swinney attributes Clemson's leading player retention to their proven developmental program and strong infrastructure.
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