Nyles Pinckney
By Makenna Biehl
     Defensive tackle Nyles Pinckney is coming into the 2020 season after recovering from ankle surgery this past offseason. Pinckney explained with the media that he has recovered and is in the shape that he wants to be in for this upcoming season. 

Pinckney: “I had surgery over the offseason to get my ankle better. It was a long process. It was a frustrating time but at the end of the day it was worth it.”

— ClemsonSportsNews (@ClemSportNews) September 1, 2020

     Not only does Pinckney think he is in a good position, but he also thinks the defense is as well. He has become a leader for the defense and is proud of all the work that the guys around him have put in. 

Pinckney: “This group is probably the most experienced I’ve ever been around.”

— ClemsonSportsNews (@ClemSportNews) September 1, 2020

Pinckney speaks well on Malcolm Greene, Bryan Bresee, and Trenton Simpson. Saying they all stand out to him.

— ClemsonSportsNews (@ClemSportNews) September 1, 2020

     Pinckney also further explains how the team is ready to play this season. It was announced earlier Tuesday that there would be no fans at the first home game; however, Pinckney doesn’t see that as a disadvantage. He expressed that the whole team wants to be there and is ready to bring the energy to win. 

Pinckney: “Everybody here wants to be here. Everybody wants to play. Coach Swinney isn’t forcing anyone here.”

— ClemsonSportsNews (@ClemSportNews) September 1, 2020

Pinckney: “When we’re at practice we bring the energy. The fans aren’t going to play, we are.”

— ClemsonSportsNews (@ClemSportNews) September 1, 2020

     The extra year of eligibility has shown to be something that most players are grateful for. Pinckney told media that if he thinks he needs it, he will use that extra year of experience. 

Pinckney on extra year of eligibility: “It’s a great opportunity, especially in a year like this. I want to put myself in the best situation. If I feel like I need another opportunity, I have that year I can use.”

— ClemsonSportsNews (@ClemSportNews) September 1, 2020