What's Happening?
Clemson Tigers defensive lineman DeMonte Capehart has announced his decision to enter the 2026 NFL Draft. Capehart, who has been with Clemson for six seasons, made the announcement via his Instagram account.
During his time at Clemson, he started 12 games and appeared in 57, accumulating 72 tackles, 13.5 tackles-for-loss, and three sacks. This season, he tied his career-high with 21 tackles and added three tackles-for-loss. Capehart, who has also excelled academically, earning All-ACC Academic Team honors, decided to return for his final year of eligibility after an injury-ridden fifth season. His decision to declare for the draft comes ahead of Clemson's upcoming matchup against Penn State in the Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl.
Why It's Important?
Capehart's declaration for the NFL Draft is significant for both his personal career and the Clemson football program. As a seasoned player with a strong academic record, Capehart's move to the professional level highlights the dual emphasis on athletics and academics at Clemson. His decision also reflects the broader trend of college athletes opting to enter the draft early to pursue professional opportunities. For Clemson, Capehart's departure marks the loss of an experienced and skilled player, which could impact the team's defensive lineup in future seasons. His move to the NFL could also serve as an inspiration for other student-athletes balancing sports and academics.
What's Next?
As Capehart prepares for the NFL Draft, he will likely participate in various pre-draft activities, including the NFL Scouting Combine and pro days, to showcase his skills to potential teams. His performance in these events will be crucial in determining his draft position. Meanwhile, Clemson will need to strategize on filling the gap left by Capehart's departure, potentially looking to recruit new talent or promote existing players within the team. The outcome of the draft will also influence Capehart's future career trajectory, determining which team he will join and the role he will play in the NFL.
