Three Tigers currently suspended for Cotton Bowl

TigerNet Staff by

Clemson coach Dabo Swinney announced Monday that three Clemson players failed NCAA drug tests for a banned substance called ostarine, which can be found in dietary supplements among other substances, and are suspended for the Cotton Bowl, pending an appeal.

Swinney said that a small amount of the ostarine was found in the tests for All-American defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, as well as tight end Braden Galloway and offensive lineman Zach Giella.

Swinney said that they are in an appeals process currently and the ruling could possibly be overturned by game-time from the 'B sample' results in Wednesday or Thursday, per Swinney. Per the NCAA, an upheld positive drug test is the loss of one season of eligibility for the first offense.

The Tigers head coach said he believes in his players and says they would not have intentionally taken the substance.

"I've had guys fail a drug test before and usually guys write their own stories and have their own innuendo and narrative and those type of things and a lot of times those are accurate," Swinney said. "But in this case, I think it's very important to know the message is accurate and that the truth is told. These are great young men that I believe in and that I know without a doubt haven't intentionally done anything to jeopardize their opportunity or this team."

Swinney said that the players didn't have any idea of how they would have tested for the substance. Swinney said several athletes have triggered the same failed drug test and been "vindicated" later. The players have legal representation currently.

Swinney said they are preparing for the Cotton Bowl like the suspensions are an injury and they are preparing the next man up behind them. Nyles Pinckney is listed as Lawrence's backup, with 24 tackles (3.5 for loss) in 285 snaps.

Clemson began bowl practice on site Monday afternoon.