Senior Spotlight: Nyles Pinckney
By Makenna Biehl
As a student-athlete, you not only have to value athletics but also academics. A prime example of being able to balance his school work but also dominate on the field is senior, Nyle Pinckney. Pinckney enrolled early for the spring semester in 2016, and three and a half years of school later, he already has his Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice. At that rate, he can end up leaving Clemson with a graduate degree.
Not only does the defensive tackle show his hard work in the classroom, but he shows even more determination on the field. Pinckney has 71 tackles (10.5 for loss), 2.0 sacks, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries in 857 snaps over 43 career games. However, his junior season was cut short due to a fractured left ankle in the semi-final game against Ohio State, resulting in him losing the ability to play in the championship game against LSU. The injury contributed to his decision to return to play his final year for the Tigers.
The return of Pinckney is exciting for defensive coordinator Brent Venables because it means he’s going to have another year of a guaranteed strong defense. Pinckney is ready and excited to come back for his last year, and even expressed in a tweet that his senior year would be extra special. This is because he is dedicating his senior year to seniors who didn’t have an opportunity to finish their collegiate careers the way they wanted to. Pinckney’s dedication to school and sports is going to give him a successful senior year.
