CLEMSON – Clemson football is back for spring practice and head coach Dabo Swinney updated the injury status of the Tigers as the team gets back on the field.

The defensive backfield is dealing with multiple key injuries to start off the spring that will limit the group’s preparation for the 2024 season.

Junior cornerback Jaedyn Lukus had right hip surgery and Swinney noted that he will be out for the spring during his opening statement. Last season, Lukus played his last game of the year against Notre Dame and and had four starts over seven games leading into the injury.

Safety Sherrod Covil Jr. tore his ACL during practice in Nov. 2023 and that limited his season to eight games. Swinney said he is “doing great” and “ahead of schedule” in making his return for Clemson. He didn’t give exact details for the spring, but said Covil will be ready for the season.

Another name to note is freshman cornerback Corian Gipson, but he’s injured and will have “no live work” even if he practices this spring.

Given the multitude of departures in the secondary, preparation is crucial and Swinney’s staff will have to work out the kinks without two key pieces in the spring.