Antonneous Clayton’s appeal for waiver turned down by NCAA

Georgia Tech defensive end Antonneous Clayton’s appeal for an immediate-eligibility waiver has been turned down by the NCAA. Clayton learned the outcome Wednesday, a person familiar with the decision told the AJC. A team spokesman confirmed the decision.

Clayton had sought an appeal after the NCAA denied his initial request for a waiver to play immediately after transferring from Florida. After the denial, coach Geoff Collins had stated he "wholeheartedly believed that Clayton, along with cornerback Myles Sims, a transfer from Michigan, met the NCAA standards to be granted a waiver.

Clayton will have to sit out the 2019 season and have one year of eligibility remaining for 2020. Without much experience at the end position, Clayton could have provided a significant boost for the Jackets. The Yellow Jackets open their season Thursday night at No. 1 Clemson.