Clemson Tigers Football: Dabo Swinney Discusses Clemson Football at Spring Practice Press Conference
- Gavin James
- Feb 28
- 3 min read
Clemson Football Spring Practice is Here
The Clemson Tigers football team is gearing up for the 2025 season following a successful campaign that saw them win the ACC Championship and make a College Football Playoff appearance, finishing with a 10-4 record. As spring practice kicks off, head coach Dabo Swinney addressed the media inside the Smart Family Media Center at the Clemson Athletics Branding Institute, offering insight into the team’s offseason progress and expectations for the year ahead.
Kicking Things Off
Swinney began by acknowledging the success of Clemson’s athletic programs across the board before diving into his key objectives for the spring season. Among his primary focuses are leadership development, team chemistry, and the installation of offensive, defensive, and special teams schemes. He emphasized that “you don’t get better at football if you don’t play football,” stressing the importance of fundamentals and technique during spring practice. He also highlighted that game-day habits stem from practice and preparation.
Roster Updates and Injury Report
Swinney confirmed that nearly the entire roster is present for spring practice, with just three players absent who will arrive in the summer. He provided an update on several injuries, categorizing players into different recovery phases:
Limited Participants: Logan Anderson (no live work)
Recovering from Surgery: Stephalyn Green (sports hernia), Jaydyn Lukus (shoulder), Walker Parks (shoulder), Olsen Patt Henry (shoulder), Zaire Patterson (foot)
Other Injuries: Ian Reed, Clay Swinney (broken foot), Champ Thompson, Elijah Thurmond, Ari Watford (torn ACL)
Position Adjustments and Player Development
Several players are adjusting to new roles this spring, including Misun Kelley, who is figuring out his place within the team and will practice with the nickelbacks during the spring. Notably, Swinney stated that wide receiver Adam Randall will take reps at running back after an impressive showing in the first round of the College Football Playoff against Texas, while Marcus Dixon is getting a look at defensive end.
Freshman running back Gideon Davidson has impressed Swinney early on, recording a 40-inch vertical jump. Swinney described him as a unique talent and a natural leader. Another standout is Amare Adams, whom Swinney praised for his athleticism and leadership, even comparing him to former Clemson greats Bryan Bresee and Dexter Lawrence.
Staff Additions and Team Culture
Clemson has made several staff additions, including Kevin Kelley, Director of Player Evaluation & Acquisition; Lonnie Galloway, offensive analyst; and Mike Houston, defensive assistant, whom Swinney believes will all have a significant impact. He also addressed the role of transfers, emphasizing that integrating them into the program is no different from working with mid-year enrollees.
Swinney reiterated Clemson’s strong player retention rate, attributing it to the program’s culture and development approach. “Just worried about Clemson,” he stated, reinforcing his commitment to maintaining the Tigers' standard.
Spring Game and Looking Ahead
Clemson is planning to hold its spring game on April 5 at 1 p.m. inside Clemson Memorial Stadium, with the possibility of a fan day also in the works. Swinney acknowledged the challenges of roster management in today’s college football landscape, citing tampering concerns but maintaining his focus on creating opportunities for players to improve.
As the Tigers enter a new season, Swinney embraces the fresh start, expressing his excitement for team-building and player development. “Loves the process of it, loves building up a team,” he said, setting the tone for what promises to be another competitive year for Clemson football.
With spring practice underway, all eyes will be on the Tigers as they prepare to defend their ACC crown and make another push for the College Football Playoff.
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