Clemson Defensive Lineman Puts NFL Opportunity on Hold

Clemson defensive tackle Tyler Davis is returning for another season with the Tigers, it was announced Friday.

Brad Senkiw | Jan 6, 2023

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Clemson defensive tackle Tyler Davis is returning for another season with the Tigers.

In a video released by the athletic department on Friday, the senior joined Sheridan Jones and Ruke Orhorohoro in a montage that included the phrase "run it back" at the end, and the other two have already announced they are returning.

Davis was fourth on the team with 5.5 sacks and 9.5 tackles for a loss in 12 games in 2022. He earned first-team All-ACC honors and was named a permanent captain by his teammates.

The Apopka, Fla., native has one more season of eligibility. Davis, who was invited to the Senior Bowl but won’t attend now, could’ve turned pro and entered the NFL draft, but he was unlikely a first-round selection and can enhance his stock with another collegiate season.

His return gives the Tigers a big-time presence in the middle of the defensive line. Davis has produced over 100 career tackles with 15.5 sacks, 26.5 tackles for a loss and three fumble recoveries from 2019-2022.

Davis came back in 2022 because he only played in 18 games in his first three seasons, but he's long been considered an NFL prospect because of his effort and ability to stop the run. So the Tigers will benefit greatly from another season of having Davis in the rotation.

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