Attrition started early for the Clemson Tigers this spring, adding a little more urgency to Thomas Austin’s first year as offensive line coach.
We found out Thursday that center Hunter Rayburn, in and out of the starting lineup last season, has to retire from the game football due to recurring issues with neck pain. Rayburn dealt with stingers and the decision was made to medically disqualify him. He will now transition to a student coaching role.
The loss of Rayburn leaves a glaring hole in the middle of Clemson’s offensive line.
Rayburn played 603 career snaps over 19 games with six starts from 2019-21, starting each of his final five games with the Tigers.