Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney met with the media following Wednesday’s practice.
Swinney gave the latest update on the status of transfer defensive tackle Kourtney Kelly heading into Saturday’s game vs. Charleston Southern.
The West Georgia transfer has been recovering from a torn ACL suffered during a scrimmage in spring practice.
Swinney was asked how Kelly has looked during the last few days of practice, and if he’s still trending toward playing Saturday.
Swinney confirmed that the 6-foot-3, 290-pound junior remains on track to play. Swinney had previously said Tuesday that he would have a “more definitive” update on Kelly’s status for Saturday following Wednesday’s practice.
“He’s had two good days, so I’ve been encouraged,” Swinney said Wedesday. “He’s getting himself back into football shape and all that stuff, but he’s been able to hold up and do what he needs to do. So, look forward to getting some action.”
Kelly’s return should provide a much-needed boost to a Clemson interior defensive line that has been heavily depleted this season.
Kelly made his debut on Clemson’s depth chart released this week ahead of the Charleston Southern game, which is set to kick off at noon and will be televised on ACC Network.
He is listed as a backup at one of the defensive tackle spots behind co-starters Champ Thompson and Amare Adams.
Kelly was one of many transfer portal acquisitions for Clemson on the defensive side of the ball this past offseason. He spent his first two college seasons at West Georgia, where he was credited with 17 tackles (seven for loss), four sacks and a fumble recovery in 11 games in 2025 after appearing in one game while redshirting in 2024.
Swinney also gave an update on senior running back Jay Haynes, who has not played since tearing an ACL during the 2024 ACC Championship Game victory over SMU.
Swinney said Haynes has practiced all week and has looked “great.” He could be able to play Saturday as well.
“Jay’s been great,” Swinney said. “So, he’s had a good week, and it’s been good to see him be able to get a whole week and get all the work.”