Clemson DT talks Senior Bowl invite, upcoming NFL draft decision

Clemson defensive tackle Tyler Davis has accepted an invitation to the Senior Bowl, but the Florida native says he is still undecided on if he will turn pro after this season.

“I don’t know yet,” Davis replied, when asked if he is entering the NFL draft. “I’ve accepted the invitation but I don’t know.”

Davis is in his fourth season at Clemson, but he still has one year of eligibility remaining due to the extra COVID-19 year that was given out by the NCAA.

He has been productive every season for the Tigers, despite battling injuries.

Davis was named second-team All-ACC as a freshman in 2019 and received first-team honors each of the past two seasons. He also received second-team All-American honors from the FWAA this season.

Those honors came in, despite Davis missing two games this season, four games in 2021 and five games in 2020.

Whether Davis heads to the NFL after this season or next remains to be seen, but one thing is certain — he will play in at least one more game at Clemson.

Tigers defensive end Myles Murphy has opted out of the bowl game, as have Tennessee receivers Cedric Tillman and Jalin Hyatt. But Davis insists he never considered sitting out the Orange Bowl.

“It just shows our commitment to each other to finish,” Davis said. “I wanna play in this game. Just the guys beside me, just finish out with them. Everybody, we’re going to end this thing off right. So that’s who I want to do it for.”

Following the Orange Bowl on Dec. 30, Davis will have a decision to make. He spoke about what will go into his choice as far as whether to remain at Clemson or turn pro.

“Just weigh out my options, talk to my family. See what’s going to happen,” Davis said.

In addition to Davis, tight end Davis Allen, defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro and defensive end KJ Henry have also accepted invitations to the Senior Bowl.

Davis said that he was thrilled to get the offer.

“It was great,” he said. “Just being a part of that game – so many people was a part of that game. It’s phenomenal. Glad to be honored and a part of that game.”