Dabo Swinney addresses Lannden Zanders' decision to step away from football

NS_headshot_clearbackgroundby:Nick Schultz•08/06/22•

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Earlier this week, Clemson announced safety Lannden Zanders was stepping away from football. Friday, Tigers coach Dabo Swinney addressed the decision — and confirmed Zanders is staying with the program.

Zanders dealt with multiple injuries during his career, which led to his decision to retire. He appeared in 25 games over his career, including 10 starts, and played in one game last season. Swinney said Zanders had a good spring even though he didn’t physically participate, but said he’ll stay around the program in some fashion.

“I know everybody heard about Lannden,” Swinney said. “Heart breaks for him. He had a great spring. Obviously, he didn’t go spring from a physical standpoint, but did everything and looked great. Had a little bit of a setback and, honestly, just mentally and physically didn’t feel like he could do it. He’s going to graduate in December.

“Those are tough days and tough parts of the job and a tough part of the game. But man, we love Lannden and his family. He’s still a part of what we’re doing. He just won’t be able to run out there and play the game the way he wants to play it.”

Lannden Zanders announces retirement from football

Zanders took to Twitter to announce the decision to retire, citing his bouts with injuries — including one he played through during the COVID-19 2020 season.

“After battling three shoulder injuries in the span of a year, including playing through the 2020 season with a torn labrum and missing most of last season after getting hurt in the season opener, I have made the incredibly difficult decision to step away from playing the game I love,” Zanders wrote.

“While I’ve worked hard with our trainers and doctors to return to the field, I just do not believe I am physically able to be the kind of player I have always prided myself on being,” Zanders said. “Though I am disappointed I will not play football again, I leave the game with no regrets.”

On3 and Clemson Sports’ Jeremy Johnson contributed to this report.