Clemson DT Reader to return to team Monday

CLEMSON, S.C. (AP) Clemson defensive tackle D.J. Reader has returned to the team and will begin practicing with the fifth-ranked Tigers on Monday. Reader had

CLEMSON, S.C. (AP) Clemson defensive tackle D.J. Reader has returned to the team and will begin practicing with the fifth-ranked Tigers on Monday.

Reader had not played this season after stepping away in August with what Clemson coach Dabo Swinney said were ''personal issues.'' The school announced Reader's return Saturday.

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Reader is a 6-foot-3, 325-pound senior who was scheduled to start for the Tigers. Swinney has continually deflected questions about Reader through this season, saying he wanted to concentrate on players who were with the team.

Reader has had 110 tackles in his three seasons as a backup.

The Tigers defensive line has played well without Reader as tackles Carlos Watkins, Scott Pagano and Christian Wilkins have combined for 96 tackles.