Clemson football: Xavier Thomas still struggling with the injury bug

Clemson football fans have steadily waited for Xavier Thomas to show the potential seen in him when he came out of high school, but a plethora of misfortunes have had him sidelined for much of his career and playing at less than 100 percent when he was on the field.

Thomas showed great flashes during his freshman season when he played sparingly, accumulating 33 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. Unfortunately, his next two years were plagued with injuries and struggles that would not allow him even those same type of numbers.

Thomas struggled with his weight and also struggled with injuries- including a concussion- during his sophomore season that ended with him playing in12 games and accumulating just 27 tackles, 8 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks.

During his junior season, Thomas struggled with the combined effects from COVID and strep throat to miss the first portion of the season. In total, he played in just five games and accumulated six tackles and four tackles for loss, but did tie that career-high of 3.5 sacks.

Every Clemson football fan knows the potential that Thomas possesses, but he’s still struggling with the injury bug

Meeting with the media earlier this week, Clemson defensive coordinator Brent Venables said that Thomas had been ‘snakebit’ when asked about him dealing with injuries.

"“He’s just been snakebit a little bit from that standpoint,” Venables said via The Clemson Insider. “But when he’s been out there, I’ve been pleased with what he’s been able to bring to the table.”“He had some protocol things going on early and had a little shoulder banged up as well. “So, he hasn’t had as many reps as some of the other guys. But when he’s been in there, I’ve been really pleased with things that he’s done.”"

Thomas has been in-and-out during practice due to protocol and a banged up shoulder. It’s not something we want to see, but it’s just the reality of what’s going on currently.

The good news is that nothing seems to be too serious and that he has reportedly had a nice spring when he has been able to get on the field.

The hope from every Clemson fan should be that Thomas is able to get healthy this summer and put in the work needed to get back to his highest-playing level possible. If he can do that, there’s no telling what he might be able to accomplish this fall.