Nick Eason Suffers Torn Achilles Tendon

Dec. 16, 2000

CLEMSON, S.C. –Clemson starting defensive end Nick Eason suffered a torn achilles tendon during practice Saturday morning and will miss the Toyota Gator Bowl against Virginia Tech on January 1st. Eason suffered the injury while making an interception during the practice that was held in the Jervey Gym.

Clemson was practicing inside due to inclement weather. It was the first time anyone could recall a Clemson football player suffering an injury in that facility.

“This is a big loss for us on defense,” said Clemson Head Coach Tommy Bowden. “Nick is one of the leaders of our defense, our team leader in sacks. Obviously he was to play an important role in our defense for an outstanding Virginia Tech offense. Someone will have to step up.”

Eason, a sophomore from Lyons, GA, had seven sacks this season to lead the Clemson team and rank eighth in the ACC in that category. He ranked second on the team tackles for loss with 11 and his 36 total tackles rank 11th on the Clemson team, first among defensive linemen. He had nine tackles against Georgia Tech and seven in the season finale against South Carolina. He started all 11 games this year.

Khaleed Vaughan, a freshman from Atlanta, GA, is expected to move into the starting position in Eason’s place. Vaughan played all 11 games for a total of 194 plays. He has 18 tackles, including three quarterback sacks.