ACC Media Days : Football is Here

By: Grayson Mann

As we head closer to kickoff, we got the chance to hear from Dabo Swinney and three players representing the team at ACC Kickoff. Those players were QB DJ Uiagalelei, DE K.J. Henry, and OT Jordan McFadden. Swinney spoke for 15 minutes and the three players spoke for 5-minute periods. 

Dabo got the chance to speak about various things such as NIL, DJ, and his new coordinators. 

When asked about NIL Dabo spoke about how things within the program haven’t dramatically shifted. “It does not change the way I manage the guys. The experience has been great for us and the guys in the locker room.” 

Dabo also gave everyone his seal of approval towards his new coordinators in Wes Goodwin and Brandon Streeter. “All the boxes were checked. They are so deserving.” Fans got a preview of what these new coordinators bring to the table in a bowl victory against Iowa State. 

The players got to speak as well to the media in the session. A major point of emphasis was their confidence in this new season and how the team has moved forward following last year. KJ Henry, one of the speakers, chose to return and got the chance to speak on what it means for him. 

KJ stated how it meant a lot to return and how “Coach Swinney was a huge reason” on the reason for his return. KJ is a huge leader for the defense and his return is significant for continuity within the team. 

Jordan McFadden, an anchor for the offensive line, was a major bright spot for the offense and said it “felt great” to find that personal consistency within the lineup. McFadden led the charge as Clemson found their groove within the run game as they won six straight to wrap up the 2021 season. 

Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei wrapped up the session with his turn to speak to the media. DJ faced questions about his offseason, play last year, and much more. DJ got the chance to speak on his personal NIL experience and what his thoughts were on it.

“I know here for us at Clemson and with our program that everyone is happy for each other when someone makes some money” 

How DJ managed the offseason was another key topic that was focused on. He said that one of his major goals this offseason was to drop some weight and to be in the best shape of his life. Tiger fans have highly anticipated how DJ will perform this upcoming season, so it should be very encouraging for Clemson fans to hear as we near the start of fall camp. 

A theme throughout the media session is the confidence that was represented at Charlotte today. This is a team that is ready to get things rolling as we get closer and closer to kickoff.