Clemson wide receiver ruled out for season opener against Georgia

Clemson Tigers receiver Brannon Spector has been ruled out of Saturday’s season opener against No. 5 Georgia, he posted via Twitter. The redshirt sophomore tested positive for COVID-19 in the spring and is still dealing with some aftereffects.

“After getting COVID in the spring, I’ve been facing some respiratory challenges that have kept me from being where I want to be athletically,” he wrote. “Though I hate that I can’t be out there with my teammates this Saturday, I’m working with the trainers and doctors to do everything I can to return this season. I continue to make daily improvement with my conditioning and will continue to work my hardest to return as soon as possible.”

Spector finished with 16 catches for 136 yards receiving this past season. He was slated to serve the Tigers in a reserve role once more in 2021.

Clemson is coming off of a loss to Ohio State in the semifinals of the College Football Playoff. Although Spector will not play Saturday, he does expect to be back before the end of the year.

The receiver has got nothing but support from his teammates as he recovers. Until he is able to play again, he will take the role of encourager on the sidelines for the Tigers.

“I want to thank the entire Clemson staff, my teammates, friends and family for all their support as I fight my way back onto the field,” he said. “I look forward to cheering on my team and being the best teammate I can until the time comes when I can fight alongside them again.”

Spector’s next opportunity to play is Sept. 11 when Clemson takes on in-state rival South Carolina. The Tigers released their depth chart for the season opener earlier this week. Justyn Ross, Frank Ladson Jr., E.J. Williams and Joseph Ngata are listed as starting receivers.

If the Clemson receiver is once again ruled out, the next chance is Sept. 18 against Georgia Tech.