Dabo Swinney breaks down DJ Uiagalelei's decision to enter transfer portal

Moving forward, it’s a new era at Clemson with quarterback Cade Klubnik taking over as the starter and D.J. Uiagalelei moving on via the NCAA transfer portal. Uiagalelei officially entered earlier this month after graduating in three years from the university. Head coach Dabo Swinney addressed his quarterback’s departure and even anticipated Uiagalelei leaving after the season.

“It’s a consequence of the rules the way they are right now because he really didn’t want to leave,” Swinney said. “I mean, I knew he was leaving, whether he was going to go pro, or whatever. He really wanted to go pro and (he just came) to the conclusion that he really needs another year. He’s got his degree. He’s graduating next week. So I knew I knew he was going one way or the other. But he really he really wanted to finish. He really wanted to play, he wanted to be there with his team. He wanted to be, but the way the rules are set up, it doesn’t really allow you to do that because you’ve got a very small window here where he’s got to figure out what he’s gonna do. So it is what it is. And, you know, (I’m) thankful for D.J. and love and appreciate him.”

Uiagalelei finished the 2022 season with 2,512 yards, 22 touchdowns, seven interceptions and a 61.9% completion percentage. In his career, he has 5,681 yards, 36 touchdowns, 17 interceptions and a 59.8% completion percentage.

“He’s been one of the greatest kids that have come through here, one of the most respected players and leaders,” Swinney said. “He’s a graduate of Clemson and he’s a two time ACC champion. And honestly, we probably don’t win the division his freshman year without him stepping in for us against (Boston College), and we definitely don’t get to Charlotte this year without him. So I’m thankful for him and he’s been a great ambassador for Clemson.”

There are a few schools being discussed as potential destinations for Uiagalelei, such as Arizona State, Tennessee or Florida, but none are confirmed. Regardless of where he goes, Swinney is confident in “DJU” but also kept focus on what’s to come for Clemson

“You know, just know he’s gonna do great things,” Swinney said. “He’s got a lot of great football in front of him. And then really obviously proud of Cade (Klubnik) and how he stepped in and how he’s grown and developed and he’s had a front row seat to really see the good and the bad of what it’s like to be a quarterback at this level. And so excited to see him have this opportunity to get his first start on a big stage against a really good team.”

Clemson takes on Tennessee in the Orange Bowl Dec. 30 at 8:00 p.m. ET.