Clemson football coach Dabo Swinney has reinstated defensive tackle Vic Burley after the player’s indefinite suspension following an arrest for public disorderly conduct and impaired driving.
Burley was taken into custody on August 22 after being seen lying on Calhoun Drive, pleaded guilty to the charges, and now faces a $150 fine, 24 hours of community service, and mandatory completion of a drug and alcohol education course as well as Clemson’s IMPACTed program by February 22, 2027.
Legal setbacks and roster adjustments
The reinstatement allows Burley to participate in the Atlantic Coast Conference opener against North Carolina on September 19, but he will miss the September 12 contest versus Georgia Southern as the team works to manage his limited availability.
The setback comes amid a serious injury to Oklahoma transfer Markus Strong, who suffered a lower‑leg ailment in the third quarter of Clemson’s 51‑10 loss to LSU on September 5, a setback that has left the defensive line thin as the squad prepares for the remainder of the season.
With the defensive front having struggled to contain the run in the LSU defeat, Swinney’s decision to bring Burley back adds depth and experience, though the player’s legal obligations will keep him sidelined for the early part of the schedule.
The coming weeks will test both Burley’s compliance with the court‑ordered program and the Tigers’ ability to shore up a defensive unit that has been vulnerable after the early‑season setbacks.