CLEMSON FOOTBALL

Swinney said Hyatt has a drive to be a first-round pick.
Swinney said Hyatt has a drive to be a first-round pick.

Swinney on Hyatt decision: 'That's the best recruit you can get'


by - Staff Writer -

Dabo Swinney was in Houston for the Bryant coach of the year award ceremony when left tackle Mitch Hyatt announced he was returning for his senior season Wednesday.

The Tigers head coach said he was "excited" to get the good news.

"That’s the best recruit you can get," Swinney told Houston area media. "When you have an experienced, veteran player that’s fully-committed and one of the best leaders on your team that you know you’re going to have for another year."

Hyatt said in his announcement Wednesday that he had "some unfinished business on the field," as well as a drive to get his Clemson degree.

Swinney went more detail into Hyatt's thought process.

"Mitch got a solid draft grade," said Swinney, "but not where he wanted to be and not what his potential is. I think it’s great. Obviously it’s great for us. At the end of the day, I tell all these guys. If you want to go, they’re not going to close Clemson down. I promise you. This is not about Clemson. This is not about me. It’s about you and we’re going to support whatever you want to do. Here’s the information, and here’s the scope of your decision. And you support them in their decision.

"He wants to be a first-round pick and I think he has the potential to be that. It’s going to take another year. I’m glad he’s coming back and it’s good to have that left tackle in place."

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