Clemson running back Michel Dukes announces transfer destination

Former Clemson running back Michel Dukes is transferring to play for South Florida, he posted on his Instagram. Dukes entered the transfer portal a little more than three weeks ago because of a “team issue.”

A junior, he served as one of the Tigers main return specialists a year ago. With the departure of Travis Etienne and the transfer of Lyn-J Dixon earlier this season, he was expected to take on a larger role in the Clemson offense. Dabo Swinney even called him one of the best athletes on the Tigers roster.

But it obviously never worked out. In just one game this season, he has two carries for seven yards.

“Just had a team issue this week with him and just felt like it was time to move on,” Swinney said Wednesday on Dukes’ departure. “He hasn’t really played. You hate it. Again, that’s kind of where we are with college football. And he is one of the best athletes on this team. It takes a lot more than that. I wish him nothing but the best and I will do anything I can to help him. Just focused on the guys that are here.”

When Swinney was asked if Dukes violated a team rule, the coach confirmed that reality and said there were “Consequences for that. He decided it was time to move on.”

The Tigers have fallen short of expectations this season after entering the year at No. 3. They have somewhat turned things around of late, however, winning five of their past six games. They face Wake Forest on Saturday in what is a pivotal game for both teams.

Michel Dukes joins a South Florida team that is currently 2-8 this season. He will likely have competition on the Bulls in 2022. USF’s current leading rusher, Jaren Mangham, has another year of eligibility after this season.