Darrius Clemons Has Emerged as WSU Passing Threat
The redshirt senior receiver has rebounded from a severe Achilles injury to lead the Cougars in receptions.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Football
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After enduring a torn Achilles injury during the 2025 training camp, Washington State University wide receiver Darrius Clemons has returned to lead the team's passing attack. The 6-foot-3, 217-pound receiver is currently tied for the team lead in receptions as he integrates into the Cougars' offense.
Why it matters
Clemons' successful return is critical to the Washington State passing game, especially as the team navigates health issues among other key receivers like Tony Freeman. His ability to produce following a long rehabilitation process provides the WSU coaching staff with a reliable veteran presence.
Clemons and Daniel Blood lead the Cougars with 10 receptions each. Clemons has amassed 100 total receiving yards this season, including games with three or more catches against the Huskies, Kansas State, and Duquesne.
The players
Darrius Clemons
He is a redshirt senior wide receiver currently playing for Washington State University.
Daniel Blood
He is a Washington State University receiver currently tied with Clemons for the team lead in receptions.
Tony Freeman
He is a receiver for Washington State University who suffered a knee injury during the team's season opener.
The details
Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 217 pounds, Clemons is now a primary target for the WSU passing offense after overcoming a torn Achilles suffered in August 2025. He previously gained championship experience with Michigan in 2023 and played for Oregon State in 2024.
Timeline
Clemons was a top prospect in the 2022 class.
He won a national championship at Michigan in 2023.
Clemons played for Oregon State University in 2024.
He suffered a torn Achilles injury in August 2025.
The article reports on his current status as of September 2026.
The Big Picture
Clemons' collegiate journey is framed by his tenure on the 2023 University of Michigan national championship team. This story follows a pattern of career progression set by his contributions to that historic title run.
With Clemons tied for the team lead with 10 receptions, his consistent availability is now a primary factor in the Cougars' offensive rotation. His continued production remains essential for maintaining the team's passing efficiency following the injury to Tony Freeman.
The takeaway
Rehabilitating from a major lower-body injury requires a disciplined approach to both practice and recovery. Clemons demonstrates that veteran experience often translates to quick integration when players prioritize consistent rehabilitation routines.
Further reading
For more on the Cougars' season, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sports Illustrated.
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