Clemson Tigers Severely Shorthanded for 2025 Pinstripe Bowl: A Breakdown of Opt-Outs, Transfers, and Injuries
As Clemson prepares to face Penn State in the 2025 Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl on December 27 at Yankee Stadium, head coach Dabo Swinney revealed in his December 15 press conference that the Tigers will be without 26 scholarship players due to a combination of NFL Draft opt-outs, transfer portal entries, and injuries. This significant depletion—primarily driven by 17 injuries—represents one of the most challenging roster situations for a Clemson bowl game in recent memory, forcing younger players and backups into prominent roles against a strong Nittany Lions team.Swinney emphasized a “next man up” mentality, highlighting opportunities for underclassmen while confirming that key quarterback Cade Klubnik will suit up.
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the unavailable players, categorized by reason, based on Swinney’s updates and recent reports.NFL Draft Opt-Outs (4 Players)These players, mostly juniors or early declarants, have chosen to skip the bowl game to prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft. This group includes several defensive standouts, significantly impacting Clemson’s front seven and secondary.
- CB Avieon Terrell: A junior cornerback who emerged as a key defender despite missing time late in the season with a quadricep issue.
- DT Peter Woods: A disruptive interior lineman and one of Clemson’s top talents.
- DE T.J. Parker: A rising edge rusher with high NFL potential.
- DT DeMonte Capehart: A veteran defensive tackle providing depth and run-stopping ability.
These four represent Clemson’s “true” opt-outs focused on professional preparation, stripping experience from an already young defense.Players Entering the Transfer Portal (5 Players)With the transfer portal open, these players have announced their intentions to leave the program and will not participate in the bowl game. This group includes depth pieces across multiple position groups.
- RB Keith Adams Jr.: Running back depth.
- LB Jamal Anderson: Linebacker contributor.
- LB Dee Crayton: Another linebacker seeking new opportunities.
- CB Shelton Lewis: Cornerback who saw rotational snaps.
- S Khalil Barnes: A starting safety whose departure is the most notable loss in this category.
These exits reflect the ongoing churn in college football, with Barnes being the only regular starter among the transfers.Injured Players (17 Players)The largest group by far, injuries have ravaged Clemson’s roster, particularly the offensive line (severely depleted), running backs, and defensive line. Many of these stem from season-ending or lingering issues, with some requiring surgery.
- OT Brayden Jacobs
- OT Elyjah Thurmon
- OG Walker Parks (key starter)
- OG Collin Sadler (underwent surgery)
- OT Easton Ware
- RB Jarvis Green
- RB Jay Haynes
- RB Peyton Streko
- TE Olsen Patt-Henry
- WR Bryant Wesco Jr.
- WR Antonio Williams (nagging shoulder injury; also in draft preparation discussions but confirmed out due to health)
- DE Jahiem Lawson
- DE Armon Mason
- DT Amare Adams
- DT Makhi Williams-Lee
- LB Wade Woodaz (surgery)
- LB Logan Anderson
The offensive line is hit hardest, with multiple starters and reserves sidelined, potentially forcing walk-ons or true freshmen into action. The running back room is thinned out, and the defensive front loses additional depth. Wide receiver Antonio Williams’ absence is notable, as he was a dynamic playmaker when healthy.Additionally, tight end Ian Schieffelin has left the program and is ineligible, adding to the overall attrition.
Silver Linings and Outlook
Despite the losses, Swinney confirmed several positives: quarterback Cade Klubnik will play, providing stability under center. Other available contributors include running backs like Phil Mafah (not listed among the unavailable), wide receivers such as TJ Moore, and defensive end Will Heldt, who has an extra year of eligibility.This matchup against Penn State will test Clemson’s depth chart like never before, offering valuable experience to younger players in a high-profile setting. Swinney paid tribute to departing seniors and emphasized the program’s culture of resilience. While the Tigers enter as underdogs due to the roster holes, the Pinstripe Bowl represents a chance to end a 7-5 season on a high note with an makeshift lineup showcasing the future of Clemson football.
