Tristan Smith regains eligibility for Clemson football

Clemson University wide receiver Tristan Smith has been granted a fifth year of eligibility following a legal battle with the NCAA. After the NCAA initially denied a waiver for Smith to play an additional season, he filed a complaint in Pickens County Court in January.

In June, Smith's legal team successfully secured a temporary injunction allowing him to participate in the 2026 season. Smith, who previously attended Hutchinson Community College and Southeast Missouri State, noted that the process was supported by his lawyer, Darren Heitner, and his coaching staff. Upon receiving the news via email, Smith stated, “Winners are going to win,” recalling the message from his lawyer that preceded his emotional reaction.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney was among the first to contact Smith following the ruling. The addition of Smith is expected to provide depth to the Tigers' wide receiver corps for the upcoming season.