Dabo Swinney announces starting linebacker won't play in Orange Bowl
Dabo Swinney delivered some bad news on starting linebacker Trenton Simpson on Tuesday afternoon.
Simpson will miss Clemson’s Orange Bowl matchup with Tennessee due to an ankle injury. Swinney said this was not an opt-out, although Simpson is considering his options with regard to the 2023 NFL Draft.
Dabo Swinney says Trenton Simpson is here but he will not play in the Orange Bowl because of an ankle injury. Says he knows Simpson"s plan as far as pros but will let Simpson announce it.
— Jon Blau (@Jon_Blau) December 13, 2022
Clemson will also be without star defensive lineman Myles Murphy against the Vols. Murphy has opted out of the bowl game to prepare for the draft.
The Tigers are also awaiting plans for defensive lineman Bryan Bresee, who is currently projected as a first round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Bresee was present at Clemson’s bowl practice on Tuesday.
Losing Simpson will be significant for the Tigers. He finished second on the team with 72 tackles this season. He also added 4 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks.
Clemson faces Tennessee in the Orange Bowl on Dec. 30. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET.
