Clemson Injury Update: Tigers starters trending toward playing vs. Syracuse

Clemson fans have been holding their breath all week, but Friday’s official ACC injury report delivered encouraging news. Wide receiver Antonio Williams, offensive linemen Tristan Leigh and Elyjah Thurmon, and safety Khalil Barnes are all probable to play when the Tigers host Syracuse at Death Valley on Saturday.

Williams, the explosive slot receiver who stretches defenses with his speed and precision routes, is expected to return just in time for Clemson’s struggling offense to find a spark. His presence gives quarterback Cade Klubnik a reliable target on third down and in the red zone.

Up front, the availability of Leigh and Thurmon is critical. Clemson’s offensive line has battled inconsistency, and having two of its anchors back should stabilize protection and open rushing lanes for Adam Randall.

On defense, Barnes—the versatile safety who can cover sideline to sideline—adds leadership to a secondary that has been tested often in the first three weeks. His return helps defensive coordinator Tom Allen expand the playbook with more aggressive looks against the Orange passing attack.

What It Means for Saturday

Clemson has stumbled to a 1–2 start, and Saturday’s noon kickoff against Syracuse feels like a must-win to stop the bleeding. Having Williams, Leigh, Thurmon, and Barnes ready to go doesn’t just improve the Tigers’ starting lineup—it completely changes the confidence level heading into the ACC clash.

If all four suit up, Clemson will be far closer to full strength than it has been at any point this season.