While the Cincinnati Bearcats performed impressively in their Week 1 matchup, the team has an opportunity to outdo themselves in Week 2 with a massive name returning to action.
On Tuesday, junior defensive lineman Dontay Corleone was cleared to return to action and has a chance to suit up against Pittsburgh in Week 2.
“Cincinnati football redshirt junior defensive tackle Dontay Corleone, a 2022 All-American and preseason All-Big 12 selection this fall, has been cleared to play in games by the Cincinnati Athletics sports medicine staff,” the university release states. “He will be a full participant in practice for the first time this season on Tuesday. His playing status for Saturday’s game against Pittsburgh (12 p.m. ET) will be determined later in the week.”
Corleone was diagnosed with blood clots in his lungs back in June, which put his future career in jeopardy. Cincinnati noted that Corleone and his family met with countless physicians and specialists to develop a plan focused on safely returning to the football field this season.
“I’m excited to be back on the field with my brothers,” Corleone said. “I will continue to lead on and off the field. My family and I are very thankful for Aaron Himmler, Dr. Divine, and the entire UC sports medicine staff. I also want to thank all of our fans for their love and support throughout this process. For the last few months, I have worked extremely hard to make a return. With the help of our strength and conditioning staff, especially (assistant director of sports performance) Brandon Garcia, who worked with me daily, I feel fully prepared to play this season.”
In 23 career games, Corleone has earned the reputation of one of the most-feared defensive lineman in the Big 12 Conference. He has recorded 83 total tackles, six sacks, three forced fumbles, and one pass breakup during his career.
“Dontay has really worked hard to get to this point, and we are excited to have him back,” head coach Scott Satterfield said. “Despite being limited, he has stepped up as a team leader and maintained a steadying influence on the team. We are grateful to our medical staff for implementing a plan that will allow Dontay to play. We will continue to closely monitor him. We are thrilled he is healthy and ready to come back.”
Cincinnati kicks off their Week 2 matchup against the Pittsburgh Panthers on Saturday, September 7th, at 11:00 a.m. CT.
