Clemson's Pagano to pursue grad transfer

Clemson defensive tackle Scott Pagano will play his senior season elsewhere as a graduate transfer, the school confirmed Friday.

"We wanted him to stay, but he said he had accomplished everything he wanted to do at Clemson," coach Dabo Swinney said of Pagano's decision to leave the program.

Swinney added that Pagano, a native Hawaiian, indicated he'd like to play his final season on the west coast. He's also expected to seek more playing time at a new school as he gets set to enter his draft year.

Pagano was a key contributor on the Tigers' national championship team, and started 13 games over the past two seasons. He recorded 31 tackles and two sacks in 2016, and has 93 tackles with 2.5 sacks for his career.

Though losing Pagano dents Clemson's defensive line depth, the team still boasts notables Christian Wilkins, Clelin Ferrell, Austin Bryant, and Dexter Lawrence.

Pagano already has his sociology degree from Clemson, making him eligible to suit up for his next program immediately. The former four-star recruit instantly becomes one of the top players available on the transfer market.