Swinney updates Deshaun Watson's rehab

Tony Crumpton by Assoc. Editor -

Clemson football coach Dabo Swinney Dabo Swinney

Head Coach

View Full Profile talked to ESPN's David Hale about the condition of starting quarterback Deshaun Watson earlier on Wednesday and said that Watson was at 80% now.

"His rehab has gone tremendous," Swinney said to ESPN. "He's probably about 80 percent right now. Most people would be 50 or 60, but he's not most people. He's a uniquely wired individual. He's great. He's healthier now than he was when he beat South Carolina."

Watson tore his ACL in a practice before the Georgia State game but chose to play against arch-rival South Carolina before having surgery. He was 14 for 19 for 269 and two touchdowns against the Gamecocks and also had two rushing touchdowns on five carries.

After the game Watson's performance almost left Swinney speechless. "Watson is a mental and genetic freak," Swinney said. "I don't know what else to say."

He will miss spring practice (can do mental reps) but head coach Dabo Swinney thinks Watson will be ready for summer workouts.

In his rookie campaign, Watson completed 67.9% of his passes for 1,466 yards (10.7 per attempt) with 14 touchdowns and only two interceptions for a tremendous quarterback rating of 188.57.

Dabo says Deshaun Watson is at 80% now. "He's healthier than when he beat South Carolina." #Clemson — David Hale (@DavidHaleESPN) March 25, 2015