On the same day Sammy Watkins was named as one of the 10 semifinalists for the Biletnikoff Award, the Clemson wide receiver was portraying an air of cautious optimism for his availability this weekend.
Watkins sprained the A.C. joint in his shoulder in the third quarter of Saturday’s come-from-behind win over Wake Forest and did not return. Following the game, head coach Dabo Swinney said he was hopeful the true freshman would be available against North Carolina State this weekend.
After an MRI was performed Sunday, Watkins shares that glass-is-half-full mentality. Somewhat.
“It’s getting better day by day,” Watkins said by way of Travis Sawchik of the Charleston Post & Courier. “I’ll probably be limited but I might play. I’ll get treatment every day and (try) to practice Thursday. … It’s just sore right now it’s not really hurting.”
The Tigers clinched the ACC Atlantic title with the win Saturday, so they can afford to play it somewhat safe with Watkins. The All-American candidate leads the team in receptions (69), receiving yards (1,040) and receiving touchdowns (10).
