Clemson University

The latest injury news on Clemson football’s Adam Randall, Walker Parks

Converted wide receiver Adam Randall (8) is the favorite to start at running back for Clemson football in 2025
Converted wide receiver Adam Randall (8) is the favorite to start at running back for Clemson football in 2025 Imagn Images

Two key Clemson football players suffered recent injuries during preseason camp.

Dabo Swinney says not to worry about either.

Veteran offensive lineman Walker Parks, Clemson’s expected starting right guard, was injured during the team’s Aug. 9 scrimmage, per The Clemson Insider. Parks, per multiple reports, has been using crutches this week as he recovers.

And Adam Randall — a converted wide receiver expected to play a key role for the Tigers at running back this year and likely start in Week 1 — was practicing in a yellow non-contact jersey earlier this week, as first reported by TigerIllustrated.com.

Swinney updated both players’ statuses Thursday.

Speaking after Clemson’s second scrimmage of preseason practice, Swinney said Randall participated Thursday and had a few big plays, including a 50-60 yard run. There are no concerns about Randall’s injury status, Swinney said.

Randall, per reports, was dealing with a minor knee injury.

“He was awesome,” Swinney said of Randall. “Had a good day.”

Parks, meanwhile, did not play in Thursday’s scrimmage but will be ready to play Week 1 vs LSU, Swinney said.

“I know everybody’s panicking,” Swinney said. “Walker’s fine. He’s fine.”

With Parks sitting out Thursday, Swinney said offensive linemen Collin Sadler, Harris Sewell and Elyjah Thurmon all stepped up. Sadler and Sewell are considered the top two candidates to Clemson’s open left guard position.

Swinney also gave updates on two injured defensive backs. Starting junior safety Khalil Barnes and senior cornerback Jeadyn Lukus both missed Thursday’s scrimmage, he said, while practicing “some” during the week.

Lukus, who also missed Clemson’s first scrimmage, probably could’ve played (he was in a green limited contact jersey) but Clemson didn’t want to push it. Lukus should be back next week. Barnes is “close” to returning, Swinney added.

Clemson wraps preseason practice next Tuesday and is 17 days away from its season opener at Memorial Stadium. The No. 4 Tigers host No. 9 LSU on Saturday, Aug. 30 in their first home opener since 2019. The game is set for a 7:30 p.m. kick on ABC.

Clemson offensive lineman Walker Parks (64)
Clemson offensive lineman Walker Parks (64) Ken Ruinard Imagn Images

This story was originally published August 14, 2025 at 2:11 PM.

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Chapel Fowler
The State
Chapel Fowler, the NSMA’s 2024 South Carolina Sportswriter of the Year, has covered Clemson football and other topics for The State since summer 2022. His work’s also been honored by the Associated Press Sports Editors, the South Carolina Press Association and the North Carolina Press Association. He’s a Denver, N.C., native, a UNC-Chapel Hill alum and a pickup basketball enthusiast. Support my work with a digital subscription
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