Clemson loses another starter for the rest of the 2026 season
The Tigers had just gotten their starting nickelback healthy, and his return against Miami showed precisely why they needed him.
Clemson has suffered another significant setback as head coach Dabo Swinney announced that nickelback Corian Gipson will miss the remainder of the 2026 season due to a meniscus injury that requires surgery. Swinney expressed his disappointment, stating that Gipson's absence is a "big, big loss" for the team. The injury occurred after Gipson had returned to the lineup against Miami, recording notable performances with five tackles, a forced fumble, and a pass breakup.
Gipson nearly created a turnover by punching the ball away from Miami quarterback Darian Mensah, but it was recovered in the end zone. He also broke up a third-down pass near Clemson's goal line. Swinney hinted that safety Ronan Hanafin will assume more responsibilities at the nickelback position, with Auburn transfer Donovan Starr and senior Branden Strozier providing additional experienced options.
Ashton Hampton may serve as a matchup-specific solution if a premium slot receiver presents a challenge. Clemson has multiple candidates to replace Gipson, but none easily match the speed he brought to the position.
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