Clemson offensive lineman Dietrick Pennington’s promising 2024 season has been cut short by a devastating ACL tear. The redshirt junior, who had previously played 54 offensive snaps over 12 career games, will miss the remainder of the season due to the injury.
Pennington, a former DII-AA Mr. Football winner, had shown flashes of his potential in the early part of the 2024 season. He played a career-high 31 snaps in a blowout win against Appalachian State and saw action on special teams in the season opener against No. 1 Georgia. However, the torn ACL has put his development on hold for the time being.
ACL injuries are common in high-impact sports like football, with the ligament often tearing during sudden stops, changes in direction, or awkward landings. While advancements in medical technology and rehabilitation techniques have improved recovery outcomes, the road back to full strength is still a long and challenging one.
“His ACL was not fully torn but it was one of those that wouldn’t fully heal up. We plan to try and get the year back so he will still have a couple of years,” Said Swinney. “It’s just a setback for him. He is mentally in a good place and knows what to do, but it is a big loss”
Dabo Swinney
This is not the first time Pennington has faced adversity due to injury. In his collegiate debut against SC State in 2021, he played just four snaps before suffering a season-ending knee injury. He bounced back in 2022, playing 28 offensive snaps over three games and earning a spot on the ACC Honor Roll.
The Clemson coaching staff and medical team will work closely with Pennington to ensure he receives the best possible care and support throughout his recovery.
