CLEMSON – Big news for the Tigers! DeMonte Capehart, the powerful 6’5″, 315-pound defensive tackle, is officially returning for a sixth season at Clemson after receiving an NCAA waiver to count his 2021 season as a redshirt year.
Capehart, who played in five games that year with limited action, including a special teams appearance at Syracuse, now adds valuable experience to Clemson’s already stacked defensive tackle room. His 2021 campaign barely counted against his eligibility, thanks to the NCAA’s COVID-19 eligibility rule, giving him another year to showcase his immense talent.
The Tigers’ defensive line just got even more formidable. With three returning interior linemen—Peter Woods (396 snaps), Stephiylan Green (306), and Capehart (251)—Clemson’s front seven is primed for dominance in 2024. Rising stars like Vic Burley, Hevin Brown-Shuler, and Champ Thompson will look to bolster the depth, and the incoming class, including five-star Amare Adams, promises to add even more firepower.
Despite an unfortunate ankle injury that sidelined him for key ACC games in 2023, Capehart’s raw power and game-changing potential are undeniable. If not for that setback, he could’ve been a top contender for the NFL Draft this year. But just like former Tiger standout Xavier Thomas, Capehart is returning for another season to elevate his game and chase his professional dreams.
Clemson’s defensive line is primed to be a force in 2024, and Capehart’s return just took it to the next level.
