Clemson's Justyn Ross out for 2020 due to career-threatening spinal issue

One of the most dynamic wide receivers in college football could miss more than just the 2020 NCAA season.

On Monday, ESPN's David M. Hale wrote that Clemson receiver Justyn Ross won't play this year after he was diagnosed with a "congenital fusion" in his spine. Hale explained that Ross first suffered discomfort during the last practice session before the coronavirus pandemic indefinitely shut the program down.

Clemson coach Dabo Swinney said that Ross will undergo surgery on Friday, but that the receiver "is at risk" if he returns to the field at any time. It's not known if Clemson or an NFL franchise would clear him for contact down the road.

Ross finished the 2019 campaign with 66 receptions, eight touchdowns, and 865 receiving yards. The 6-foot-4 20-year-old was projected to be a high draft pick for 2021 following another standout year.

On May 19, Walter Football predicted Ross could go as high as seventh overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.