CLEMSON – Dabo Swinney and Clemson are still waiting on word whether defensive tackle DeMonte Capehart can return next season.

The hope is Capehart will return to play one more season with the Tigers. The veteran defensive lineman had been contemplating entering the NFL Draft while waiting on a waiver from the NCAA that would grant him a sixth season of eligibility.

Head coach Dabo Swinney said on Wednesday they are expecting word on a decision at “any moment” and Capehart has until Feb. 6 to enter the draft. Swinney also noted Capehart is currently enrolled in school.

Capehart was on his way to having a standout season in 2024 before an ankle injury suffered against Louisville would force him to miss three games. He would return for the South Carolina game but in a limited role. He was also still limited the following week in the ACC Championship win over SMU. It wasn’t until the loss to Texas in the first round of the College Football Playoff that the defensive tackle was fully able to return.

Capehart finished the 2024 campaign with 27 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss and two pass breakups.

Next season will be Capehart’s sixth with the program. Over his first five years, he’s been credited with 51 total tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, two sacks and one forced fumble.

Capehart’s return would be a big boost for the interior of a Clemson defensive line that already features players like Peter Woods, Stephiylan Green and Vic Burley. Not to mention Champ Thompson and Hevin Brown-Shuler, who both redshirted in 2024. 5-star Amare Adams also joins the fray for next season.

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