Clemson Faces Pinstripe Bowl With 27 Absences as Cade Klubnik Confirms He’ll Play
The depleted roster tests Dabo Swinney’s depth plan with inexperienced starters stepping into key roles.
Overview
- Clemson lists 27 players unavailable for Dec. 27, with 17 out due to injuries or surgeries, five in the transfer portal, and four opting out for NFL Draft preparation.
- Starting linebacker Wade Woodaz is out after surgery for an injury sustained against South Carolina, removing a key defensive presence from the lineup.
- High-profile absences include defensive linemen Peter Woods, T.J. Parker, DeMonte Capehart and cornerback Avieon Terrell, all sitting out to prepare for the draft.
- Defensive end Will Heldt will play in the bowl and has committed to return in 2026 on a revenue-sharing deal, reinforcing leadership on a thinned defensive front.
- Quarterback Cade Klubnik says he chose to play to help himself and because he wants another game with teammates, expressing respect for those who opted out.