Dabo Swinney explains why Clemson WR Dacari Collins left team

Matt Connollyby:Matt Connolly09/21/22

MattConnollyOn3

Clemson had a departure from its team earlier this week as receiver Dacari Collins left the program.

The sophomore appeared in all three games this season, recording one catch for 8 yards, before opting to move on.

Clemson coach Dabo Swinney was asked Wednesday what went into Collins’ decision to leave the program.

“I don’t think he liked where he is on the depth chart,” Swinney said. “Again, that’s 2022. That’s really not much of a story anymore to me, to be honest with you. That’s going to be an every year deal in college football.”

While Collins hadn’t contributed much this season, he did have a strong end to his freshman year in 2021.

With several receivers banged up, Collins started three games down the stretch.

Collins ended up recording 16 catches for 221 yards.

Collins, who is from Atlanta, has three years of eligibility remaining.

“Great kid. Great kid. Really good kid. And very talented. A really talented player and has a bright future,” Swinney said. “He’s just gotta continue to mature and grow and really commit to being the best he can be. But he can do it, for sure.”

Swinney added that he has nothing bad to say about Collins as a person and he hopes that he goes on to have a successful career.

“He loved his time here and appreciates everybody. Just guys aren’t patient much anymore,” Swinney said. “That’s the world we live in. Just wish him well and keep moving.”

Swinney quiet on Clemson injuries

The Tigers have several players who are trying to come back from injuries, but Swinney didn’t offer many hints as far as who will play on Saturday at Wake Forest.

Clemson defenders Xavier Thomas, Tyler Davis, Nate Wiggins and Andrew Mukuba missed last week’s game due to injuries.

Cornerback Sheridan Jones was hurt during the game.

“We’re in a much better spot,” Swinney said. “We’re not going to put out a list until we do our availability list on Saturday.”