CLEMSON SUSPENDS DEFENSIVE TACKLE VIC BURLEY INDEFINITELY
Clemson University has suspended defensive tackle Vic Burley indefinitely following his arrest early on Saturday, 22 August, by the Clemson University Police Department. Burley was charged with disorderly conduct, a misdemeanor. Head coach Dabo Swinney announced the suspension after the team's fall camp scrimmage, stating that no fixed timetable for Burley's return has been set. "I have made the decision to suspend Vic from our football team indefinitely. We are extremely disappointed by his actions and decisions," Swinney said. Burley is barred from all team activities, including practices, meetings and games.
Burley had missed most of fall camp due to injury before returning to participate in Thursday's scrimmage, when Swinney noted he had made several good plays. The defensive tackle arrived on campus in January 2023 as a five-star recruit ranked in the top 80 nationally. Public reports have not disclosed specific details of the incident that led to his arrest. The suspension comes approximately two weeks before Clemson opens its 2026 season against LSU on 5 September.
The loss of Burley represents a significant setback for Clemson's defence at a critical time, as he was expected to be a key contributor for the season. Clemson was ranked No. 23 in the Coaches' Poll heading into the campaign. The suspension may extend through the legal process or any internal university review, according to Swinney's statement.