Dabo Swinney and the Clemson Tigers face Lane Kiffin and the LSU Tigers in Week 1 on Saturday.
However, Swinney might’ve added more fuel to the fire with a cheeky jab towards Kiffin. When asked about NFL players returning to college, Swinney not only said it was “embarrassing” but also took a shot at Kiffin with a clever pun.
“It’s kind of embarrassing. Honestly, it’s embarrassing that’s where we are. I don’t blame the kids, but people trying to take advantage of the system. It’s embarrassing, but we’ve been there for a while.” Swinney said.
“No pun intended, but we’re just going to stay in our LANE.”
Dabo on NFL guys being able to play: "It's kind of embarrassing, Honestly, it's embarrassing that's where we are. I don't blame the kids, but people trying to take advantage of the system. It's embarrassing but we've been there for a while."
— 💫🅰️♈️🆔 (@ADavidHaleJoint) September 1, 2026
Adds "no pun intended but we're just…
Swinney also added that there are “no rules” when it comes to this matter.
Kiffin and LSU have already brought back two players who were on NFL rosters over the summer, although the new LSU head coach says his players are on board with the moves.
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian also said that it is morally wrong to do such a thing and take jobs away from players who have been working hard for months.
At the end of the day, there are still questions regarding whether or not LSU can play the former NFL players due to the SEC policy, but there should be some clarity before Saturday’s game.
