Clemson WR Wesco hospitalized, out for season after neck injury

Clemson wide receiver Bryant Wesco Jr. was hospitalized after suffering a neck injury on a punt return in the third quarter of Clemson’s 35-24 loss to SMU on Saturday at Memorial Stadium in Clemson. The sophomore was transported to a local hospital after the play, and coach Dabo Swinney said on Monday night that Wesco will be out for the season but is expected to make a full recovery.

The injury occurred at the 10:16 mark of the third quarter when Wesco fielded a bouncing punt, advanced six yards and was hit low, flipping into the air and landing on his head and neck. Fans and teammates reacted in shock as he hit the turf; Wesco rose to his feet and jogged to the sideline without receiving on-field medical attention, then was examined by trainers. He did not return to the game.

Switney described the situation as serious in his postgame comments and initially said he had no additional information. On Monday Swinney confirmed Wesco had been released from the hospital and described the update as the best-case scenario, saying, "Prayers answered." Swinney also cautioned against speculation about specific diagnoses and asked fans to keep the player in their thoughts.