The veteran defensive lineman from Clemson announced his comeback with the message “I’m back” in a social media post late Wednesday, suggesting that he has received an NCAA waiver to extend his eligibility for the 2025 season. Earlier this winter, Coach Dabo Swinney mentioned that Clemson and Capehart had submitted a waiver request to secure this additional year.
A spokesperson for Clemson confirmed to The State that Capehart’s waiver had been approved.
DeMonte Capehart is returning for his sixth year.
I’m back!! 2025…🔜⏳ pic.twitter.com/I9fGV1MMz2
— Demonte Capehart (@CapehartDemonte) January 23, 2025
Standing at 6-5 and 315 pounds, Capehart was anticipated to be a key player on the Tigers’ defensive line in 2024. However, a persistent ankle injury and subsequent surgery hindered his performance. He participated in 11 games (with six starts) and recorded a career-high of 21 tackles in 2024, but only managed 1.5 tackles for loss and no sacks over 248 snaps. Despite this, the redshirt senior was viewed as an intriguing late-round NFL prospect due to his size and Clemson’s track record of producing NFL-ready defensive linemen.
However, according to Swinney, Capehart had no plans to enter the NFL Draft. While awaiting news on his waiver, he remained on campus, took classes, and engaged in offseason workouts.
Now, he aims to have one more healthy season to demonstrate his skills. Capehart, 22, will head into the 2025 season with 45 career appearances, including six starts at Clemson, and is expected to start at defensive tackle alongside Peter Woods
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