Cincy star Corleone (blood clots) out indefinitely

CINCINNATI — Cincinnati star defensive lineman Dontay Corleone is out indefinitely while being treated for blood clots in his lungs.

Corleone, a 6-foot-2, 320-pound junior and NFL prospect, was hospitalized June 14 after complaining of chest discomfort and shortness of breath, the school said in a release Friday. He is home recovering with no timetable for his return.

“My hope is I will be able to return to football soon, but in the meantime, I will do everything I can to rehab and help the football program as a leader and mentor to our younger players,” Corleone said in a statement released by the school. “I’m looking forward to being around the guys soon.”

The Bearcats’ best defensive player has accounted for 83 tackles, 12 for a loss, in 23 games while emerging as a team leader. Cincinnati finished 3-9 in 2023, its first season in the Big 12.

“We know he is going to do everything he can to pour into our program while he recovers and focuses on his health,” Cincinnati coach Scott Satterfield said. “My top concern is for Dontay’s health. Football isn’t a priority right now.”