Clemson players welcome D.J. Reader back into the fold |
CLEMSON – Senior defensive tackle
D.J. Reader
D.J. Reader Reader hasn’t played this season after taking a leave of absence in August with what Clemson head coach
Dabo SwinneyDabo Swinney Center
Jay GuillermoJay Guillermo “I haven’t really talked to him too much about it. I know when I was out I really didn’t want to talk to anybody because I wanted to figure it out on my own,” Guillermo said. “I saw him this morning and I gave him a big old hug. It was good to see him, and he looks great.” The 6-3, 325-pound senior was in line to start for the Tigers after compiling 110 tackles during his first three season. In his absence,
Carlos WatkinsCarlos Watkins Linebacker
Ben BoulwareBen Boulware “He just brings in more leadership and experience. He's been there and done that,” Boulware said. “He's been here for years and knows what he's doing. He took a little time off for just personal stuff, but he's been working out and he's stayed in shape. I saw him this morning when we were working out. I think he will be fine. He just brings in extra knowledge, experience and leadership. I think our young guys have done a good job being prepared every week, but he brings more depth to our defensive line.” Swinney said he hopes Reader can finish strong. “We found out Thursday, I believe, that he’s ready to rejoin us and I am excited about that. We will get back to work on Monday,” Swinney said. “I have no idea what to expect. I have no idea where he is football wise. He hasn’t even practiced, much less played. But the team is excited to have him back and we’ll get him out there and see where he is. He has done some training – not here – but I know he has been working out and doing some things. He’s excited to get back out there. Hopefully he can have a strong, positive finish to his senior season.”
Defensive Tackle (2012 - 2015)
#48 6-2, 321
Greensboro, NC
View Full Profile
was back in the WestZone Monday morning, and Clemson’s players were happy to have their teammate back in the fold.
Head Coach
View Full Profile
said were "personal issues." The school announced Reader's return Saturday prior to the team’s home game against Boston College.
RS Jr. Center
#57 6-3, 324
Maryville, TN
View Full Profile
– who also stepped away from the team but did it over the spring – said he saw Reader Monday morning but didn’t try to offer any advice.
RS Jr. Defensive Tackle
#94 6-3, 296
Mooresboro, NC
View Full Profile
,
Scott PaganoScott Pagano
RS So. Defensive Tackle
#56 6-3, 290
Honolulu, HI
View Full Profile
and
Christian WilkinsChristian Wilkins
Fr. Defensive Tackle
#42 6-5, 299
Longmeadow, MA
View Full Profile
have combined for 96 tackles but have also played a lot of snaps.
Jr. Outside Linebacker
#10 6-0, 241
Anderson, SC
View Full Profile
said Reader will bring experience as the Tigers begin their stretch run, including playing four of their last six games away from Death Valley.
Unlock premium boards and exclusive features (e.g. ad-free) by upgrading your account today.
Upgrade Now