Former Clemson defensive tackle DeMonte Capehart signs NFL contract

Former Clemson defensive lineman DeMonte Capehart has officially signed his rookie contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after being selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. Capehart was picked in the fifth round with the No. 155 overall selection, giving Tampa Bay another experienced defensive lineman to add to its roster heading into the upcoming season.

During his six years with the Tigers , Capehart developed into a reliable presence on the interior defensive line and helped the Tigers capture three ACC championships. He appeared in 57 career games and became a bigger part of the rotation over his final two seasons in the program. Capehart finished his Clemson career with 88 tackles, 13.

5 tackles for loss and three sacks while also recording five pass breakups and a forced fumble. His ability to hold up against the run and provide depth in the trenches made him a valuable piece of Clemson’s defense. The 6-foot-4, 313-pound defensive tackle put together a solid final season in 2025, totaling 29 tackles, three tackles for loss, one sack and two pass breakups over 12 appearances.

Clemson baseball’s biggest game of year, postseason on line vs. FSU 📸 Ken Ruinard / staff, Ken Ruinard / staff / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images https://t. co/YpMQ0Zjga4 pic.