Mock Draft: Coaches Over Players | Clemson Tigers Football News

In a wild mock draft for 2026 college football head coaches, Dabo Swinney slid to No. 14 despite two national titles — but analysts Ari Wasserman and Andy Staples saw him as a steal, praising his roster-building skills and championship pedigree. Wasserman took Swinney in Round 2 after grabbing James Franklin, while Staples agreed Clemson still looks like playoff contenders. Mario Cristobal from Miami also got high praise, landing at No. 6. The top five? Curt Cignetti (1), Kirby Smart (2), Ryan Day (3), Marcus Freeman (4), and Steve Sarkisian (5) — proving that past success still carries weight, even amid recent turbulence. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/8ec07ff7d9dee2a2