Could an important piece of Clemson’s receiving corps return for the ACC Championship Game this Saturday against SMU?

During the ACC Championship Game head coaches teleconference on Sunday, Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney was asked for the latest injury update on receiver Tyler Brown and if he will be back in action for the conference title game.

Swinney said the Tigers are “hopeful” Brown will practice this week, though Swinney isn’t sure about his status for Saturday and whether Brown will be able to play.

“We’re hopeful that he’s going to be able to get back into practice this week… We anticipate him practicing, but I don’t know much more than that until I really see him out on the field and see how he does,” Swinney said.

A sophomore, Brown has been working his way back from the ankle injury that eventually required a tightrope surgery. The 5-foot-11, 180-pounder was injured in the second game of this season against App State, and his most recent game action came against Florida State on Oct. 5, when he played 17 snaps.

With Brown having played in only four games this season, Clemson’s coaching staff has been considering redshirting him. By rule, Brown is still able to play in any postseason games – including the ACC Championship Game – and maintain his redshirt. Redshirting this season means he would still have three more years of eligibility remaining.

Brown, a freshman All-American in 2023, has recorded five catches for 30 yards this season. The explosive local product of Greenville High School led Clemson in receptions (52) and receiving yards (531) as a freshman. He also had four touchdown receptions.

Saturday’s ACC Championship Game between Clemson (9-3, 7-1 ACC) and SMU (11-1, 8-0) at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C., is set for 8 p.m. and will be televised on ABC.