Clemson Lands Commitment from 2026 WR Carleton “Juju” Preston
Clemson continues to solidify its future on the gridiron with the commitment of 2026 wide receiver Carleton “Juju” Preston from Freedom High School in Woodbridge, Virginia. A rising star in his class, Preston’s commitment is a significant win for the Tigers, as they secure one of the most promising young talents in the nation.
Preston, a 6’2”, 185-pound wide receiver, has been turning heads with his remarkable combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability. A standout at Freedom High School, he has quickly established himself as one of the top wideouts in the 2026 class, earning attention from college programs across the country. Known for his precise route-running, strong hands, and ability to make defenders miss in open space, Preston has drawn comparisons to elite college receivers who have gone on to make waves at the next level.
During his sophomore season, Preston dominated on the field, showcasing his ability to stretch defenses vertically while also being a reliable target in short and intermediate routes. His football IQ and knack for making big plays in crucial moments have made him a fan favorite at Freedom High School and a coveted prospect among college coaches.
For Preston, Clemson stood out as the perfect destination to continue his football journey. In a statement following his commitment, he expressed his admiration for the program’s winning culture, player development, and family-oriented atmosphere.
“Clemson feels like home,” Preston said. “From the moment I stepped on campus, I knew this was where I wanted to be. The coaching staff believes in me, and I believe in what they’re building. I can’t wait to be part of something special.”
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney and his staff have built a reputation for identifying and developing elite talent, particularly at the wide receiver position. Known as “Wide Receiver U,” Clemson has produced a long line of NFL-caliber receivers, including DeAndre Hopkins, Sammy Watkins, Mike Williams, and Tee Higgins. This legacy undoubtedly played a role in Preston’s decision, as he seeks to follow in the footsteps of these stars.
Preston’s commitment is a significant boost for Clemson’s 2026 recruiting class. As the Tigers look to maintain their status as one of college football’s premier programs, securing top-tier talent at skill positions is essential. Preston brings a unique skill set that fits perfectly into Clemson’s offensive scheme, which relies on dynamic playmakers who can stretch the field and create mismatches against opposing defenses.
With Preston in the fold, Clemson adds a versatile weapon who can contribute in multiple ways. His size and athleticism make him a threat in jump-ball situations, while his speed and agility allow him to create separation and turn short catches into big gains. Preston’s ability to excel in various roles ensures that he will be an integral part of the Tigers’ offense once he arrives on campus
Landing a player of Preston’s caliber in the 2026 class reinforces Clemson’s ability to recruit at a national level. While the Tigers have traditionally focused on the Southeast, they have increasingly expanded their reach, pulling top prospects from across the country. Preston’s commitment from Virginia highlights the program’s growing influence in the Mid-Atlantic region and its ability to compete with other powerhouse programs for elite talent.
Clemson’s early recruiting success in the 2026 cycle also underscores the program’s proactive approach to building for the future. By securing commitments from players like Preston, the Tigers are ensuring that they remain competitive for years to come, even as they face growing challenges from other top programs in the ACC and beyond.
While Preston’s commitment to Clemson is exciting, his journey is far from over. With two more years of high school football remaining, he has the opportunity to continue refining his skills and establishing himself as one of the best receivers in the country. Freedom High School will undoubtedly rely on his leadership and playmaking ability as they compete for championships.
For Preston, the focus will also be on staying healthy, maintaining his academic performance, and preparing for the transition to college football. Clemson’s coaching staff will work closely with him throughout the recruiting process, ensuring that he is ready to make an immediate impact when he arrives in Death Valley.
The addition of Carleton “Juju” Preston is another step forward for a Clemson program that has consistently been among the best in college football under Dabo Swinney. With his talent, work ethic, and commitment to excellence, Preston has all the tools to become the next great receiver to wear the orange and purple.
As Clemson continues to build its 2026 class, Preston’s commitment sets the tone for what could be another elite recruiting cycle. For now, Tigers fans can celebrate the addition of a dynamic playmaker who has the potential to be a game-changer on the field.