The "Tristan Smith" Eligibility Dilemma
Some of spring will have more of a twist, including veteran wide receiver Tristan Smith. Smith is a full participant in spring practice but finds himself in limbo for the 2026 season as he depends on whether the NCAA will extend his eligibility because of his JUCO roots for an extra season.
“He can do everything,” Swinney said of Smith’s spring involvement. “And then we won't know for sure until June.”
If that decision doesn’t go Smith’s way, Swinney laid out a clear game plan. Smith either could be part of the NFL’s supplemental draft or stay at Clemson as a student coach while completing his degree and training for the NFL Combine.
Swinney praised Smith for his maturity and mindset, explaining that he is practicing as if he is the “first overall pick.” The 6-foot-5 receiver has become a “matchup problem” for the Clemson defense, and if he was to return, it could give a massive boost to a WR room that is dealing with multiple injuries.
“Hopefully it’ll go his way,” Swinney said, “especially when you look around the country and see some of the decisions that get made compared to his situation.”
As of now, Smith is still a core component in the Tigers’ “development” plan, despite the calendar’s denials in June.