Texas Longhorns: 5 Major Issues For Charlie Strong

Sep 13, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Longhorns fans tailgate prior to the game against the UCLA Bruins at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

TE Devonaire Clarington: To Play Or Not To Play?

This story here is one to watch from this point moving forward.

Keep in mind that former UT tight end Geoff Swaim is now wearing a blue star on his helmet as a seventh-round draft choice of the Dallas Cowboys last May. The Longhorns are in need of some upgrades at this position and Miami, Florida recruit Devonaire Clarington is among the few Strong hopes to count on to make that happen.

Clarington is being examined by the draconian NCAA because of academic suspicions. How well-founded these are is anybody’s guess, but word is expected any minute regarding the tight ends status for this season.

Assuming Clarington is cleared to play, he immediately becomes an issue for all opponents on the Longhorns schedule.

The 6’5” blocker weighs 220 pounds and can run quite well for a player his size. In other words, he’s too big for defensive backs to handle, but still too quick for most linebackers or safeties to deal with either.

Clarington was the top tight end in the state of Florida and was ranked top-10 at his position nationally.

Yeah, he can help sooner than later – if he can play.

If Clarington is not cleared to play, then his presence not felt immediately impacts the final and most critical challenge facing Strong in ’15.

Next: Field General Anyone?