Swinney ‘Excited’ About Position Change for Veteran DL

CLEMSON – Depth at defensive tackle has led Clemson to make some positional changes, and there’s a Tiger that’s molded his body for the role.

Redshirt sophomore Caden Story played in 10 games last season mainly as a reserve defensive tackle, but he’s shifting for 2024. Head coach Dabo Swinney talked the outlook at defensive end, and Story was a player he mentioned for the role.

“Peter (Woods) and Caden Story are two guys that we’ve moved to end,” Swinney said.

Over the last few seasons, Story’s body has been molded for defensive tackle. He’s 6-foot-3 and 280 pounds, but he’s lost a lot of weight according to Swinney and that’s set up for this change.

“I do think Caden Story will probably be an intriguing guy as we go through the spring. He looks great, he’s athletic, he’s about 260 and he’s got his body in a good spot so I’m excited about the group,” Swinney said.

After last season, Clemson lost Xavier Thomas and Justin Mascoll at defensive end. Adding Story to the rotation on the edge gives the Tigers extra flexibility and Swinney’s early comments will make him a player to watch develop in his new role throughout spring.