From Clemson Tigers On SI · · 1m 20s
Clemson RB Jay Haynes Returns After Injury
Clemson running back Jay Haynes returns to field after 679 days with help from teammates.
In brief
Clemson running back Jay Haynes returns to field after 679 days with help from teammates. Clemson RB Jay Haynes returned to playing after 679 days with support from teammates. Originally reported by Clemson Tigers On SI.
Jay Haynes' Injury
Two seasons ago, Clemson running back Jay Haynes was the backup running back preparing to be the next starter.
Torn ACL in December 2024
A torn ACL in December 2024 changed his role and forced him into rehab.
Rehab Timeline
Haynes took nearly seven months to trust his knee again before missing the 2025 season.
Coach Spiller's Support
Running backs coach C.J. Spiller stayed on Haynes, never letting him slack off.
“He’s really like a father to me now, obviously, with me coming to college, that’s kind of what all the coaches take in, being a father to the guys that they recruited. But Coach Spiller, he always stayed on me; he never let me slack off at all.”
Film Room Accountability
Spiller kept Haynes sharp in film sessions despite missing game time.
Roommate Jarvis Green
Freshman roommate Jarvis Green helped Haynes stay focused during rehab.
Mutual Support
Haynes and Green leaned on each other to stay motivated during rehab.
“Some days, you’re going to feel tired, you don’t want to do anything, but I was able to lean on Jarvis, and then Jarvis was able to lean on me.”
First Game Action in 679 Days
Haynes recorded nine carries for 25 yards in his first game action in 679 days.
Next Game Against Virginia Tech
Haynes and Clemson will play Virginia Tech at Memorial Stadium on Saturday at 7 p.m.
The short version
Clemson RB Jay Haynes returned to playing after 679 days with support from teammates.
