This offseason, the Clemson Tigers have made it clear that their primary focus is on revitalizing and elevating their defense. A significant part of this initiative involves leveraging the expertise and passion of a former Clemson legend who knows the program inside and out. Head coach Dabo Swinney recently announced key updates to his coaching staff, including the hiring of a new defensive coordinator and an expanded role for one of Clemson’s most beloved former players.
On Wednesday, Swinney introduced Tom Allen as the Tigers’ new defensive coordinator, signaling a fresh chapter for Clemson’s defense. In addition to unveiling Allen’s appointment, Swinney also revealed that former All-ACC linebacker Ben Boulware would be stepping into a more prominent role within the program. While the specifics of Boulware’s new responsibilities are still being finalized, it is evident that his expanded duties will play a crucial role in Clemson’s defensive overhaul. Notably, Boulware is set to take on a larger role in recruiting, a critical aspect of building a championship-caliber defense.
“We’ve got Ben,” Swinney told The Clemson Insider. “We are in the process of kind of finalizing some things there with that room. But (Allen) will run the defense. He’s not going to go on the road recruiting. He is going to always be with the team. I really, really like that. Ben will be out on the road (Thursday).”
Boulware, a cornerstone of Clemson’s 2016 national championship-winning team, has steadily risen through the coaching ranks. He served as an assistant linebackers coach for the Tigers in 2024, earning the trust of Swinney and the program’s leadership. Now, he is poised to take on even greater responsibility. While Allen will oversee the defense from the sidelines, Boulware’s presence on the recruiting trail is expected to bolster Clemson’s efforts to attract top-tier defensive talent.
Clemson fans hold a deep affection for Boulware, whose on-field heroics helped solidify his legendary status. He was instrumental in the Tigers’ dramatic 35-31 victory over Alabama in the 2017 National Championship Game, where he earned Defensive MVP honors. In that game, Boulware recorded six tackles, including two for loss, and a pass breakup, capping a remarkable career that included 261 tackles, eight sacks, and numerous accolades. Among these were the 2016 Jack Lambert Trophy, awarded to the nation’s top linebacker, and the ACC Co-Defensive Player of the Year award.
Now, Boulware is channeling that same energy and determination into shaping the next generation of Clemson stars. The Tigers’ 2026 recruiting class is still in its early stages, with only five players currently committed. According to 247Sports, the class ranks 13th nationally, but only one of those commits is a defensive player. Boulware’s passion for Clemson and his first-hand experience as a championship-caliber player could be a game-changer in persuading elite defensive prospects to join the program.
The challenge of rebuilding Clemson’s defense is significant, but having a figure like Boulware on the front lines of recruiting could make all the difference. His ability to connect with potential recruits and convey the pride, tradition, and success of being a Clemson Tiger is unparalleled. After all, who better to inspire future Tigers than someone who has experienced the ultimate highs of college football while donning the orange and purple?
As the 2026 recruiting cycle unfolds, all eyes will be on how Boulware’s expanded role influences the Tigers’ ability to attract elite defensive talent. With his leadership and the guidance of Tom Allen, Clemson is well-positioned to rejuvenate its defense and continue its proud tradition of success on the gridiron.
Legendary former Clemson defender to help Dabo Swinney recruit new talent
