Swinney on Clowney: ‘Finally Got Him to Clemson’

During his press conference Thursday before Clemson’s first practice of fall camp, head coach Dabo Swinney spoke about seeing Carolina Panthers edge rusher and former South Carolina star Jadeveon Clowney in Tiger Town on Thursday.

In honor of their 30th season, the Panthers had their Fan Fest event on Thursday at Clemson, where the team’s first season was held.

“Got to see Clowney out there. Had a little fun with him. Finally got him to Clemson,” Swinney joked. “Doggone it. Finally got him here, practicing in the indoor (practice facility).”

Of course, Swinney and the Tigers recruited Clowney when he was a five-star in-state prospect and the nation’s top-ranked recruit in the 2011 class. Clemson made a late hard push for his services before he ultimately announced his commitment to South Carolina over Clemson and Alabama on Feb. 14, 2011.

Thirteen years later, Clowney is now a 31-year-old, 11-year NFL veteran entering his first season with the Panthers in 2024 after signing with the team in March free agency.

A first-round pick of the Houston Texans in 2014, Clowney has accumulated 363 total tackles, 99 tackles for loss and 52.5 sacks over his pro career with the Texans (2014-18), Seattle Seahawks (2019), Tennessee Titans (2020), Cleveland Browns (2021-22) and Baltimore Ravens (2023).

After Clemson’s first fall camp practice, Swinney made his way over for part of the Panthers Fan Fest in Death Valley.

“They’ve got a good-looking football team. … Excited for what they’re trying to do,” Swinney said.

A limited number of signed footballs from Clemson’s 2022 class are still available. Get yours while supplies last! Visit Clemson Variety & Frame or purchase online!