How Clemson reacted to learning Justyn Ross was cleared

CLEMSON — Nolan Turner and his Clemson teammates followed along for more than a year, hoping Tigers star wideout Justyn Ross would be fully cleared to return to football.

Last week, Ross finally received the good news and was officially cleared for full contact after being diagnosed with a congenital fusion in his spine last summer. He did not play at all in 2020.

Turner, a sixth-year senior on Clemson’s team and a leader for the Tigers, saw Ross at Clemson’s facility shortly after he received the good news.

“I actually ran into him in the training room right when he got cleared. He told us, a couple of guys, then coach [Dabo] Swinney announced it to the team shortly after,” Turner said. “It was awesome. You could tell a lot of guys were just super happy to hear the news. Super happy for him. He’s just such a great dude and I’m happy for him to have his opportunity to come back out here.”

Ross participated in workouts this summer as he was cleared for practice but hadn’t yet been cleared for full contact.

Turner said Ross looked great during the workouts and should be one of the best receivers in the country this year. Ross led Clemson in receiving yards with 1,000 as a freshman in 2018. He had a team-high 66 receptions the following year.

“He’s still the same J Ross. He’s just a freak. He’s got all the talent in the world. His leadership’s stepped up. He’s been working. He’s been grinding. His mindset’s right,” Turner said.

“I’m so happy for J Ross getting cleared to come back out here. I mean he’s such a good dude, such a hard worker, committed guy, tremendous athlete. Having him back is so big for our receivers room. Just having his presence there. So they’re going to have a great year.”

Clemson freshmen standouts

Turner competed against and alongside Clemson’s freshmen all summer during player-led workouts. He said a few newcomers in particular stood out over the summer, including freshman running back Will Shipley.

“Shipley can fly. I mean that’s obvious,” Turner said. “On the offensive side of the ball the young receivers are super talented as always. We’re always bringing in the big-time receivers. Those guys are the real deal.”

Defensively, Turner mentioned a few freshmen defensive backs who impressed over the summer.

“At the safety position, [Andrew] Mukuba just came in, love his work ethic, love his range. Good kid, always asking questions, trying to get in the film room. That’s something good to see out of a young guy that wants to learn, wants to get better,” Turner said. “Nate Wiggins is a great athlete, can cover anybody. I think he’s going to have an exciting career.”

Finally, Turner mentioned freshman linebacker Barrett Carter, who wasn’t here in the spring but quickly made a strong impression after arriving this summer.

“You can tell from the first day just his physical presence is there. Dude’s built. He looks like a stud,” Turner said. “He has great coverage skills, good hips, moves well. Excited to see him strap the pads on and play some football. He’s picking things up well and learning. He’s going to have a bright future.”