Ian Schieffelin Joins Clemson Football Team as Tight End

CLEMSON, S.C. — Former Clemson basketball player Ian Schieffelin plans to join the Clemson football team as a tight end, according to a report by The State Newspaper.

Schieffelin, who played four seasons with the Tigers’ basketball program, averaged 12.4 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game during his senior year. He also shot 49.5% from the floor and 34.1% from beyond the arc.

His decision comes after he has spent time contemplating a football career. Schieffelin previously played quarterback and tight end through his sophomore year at Grayson High School in Loganville, Georgia. “I remember one of the Syracuse football coaches told me it would be the dumbest decision I’d ever make — going to basketball instead of playing football,” Schieffelin said last fall. “Obviously, I didn’t listen to him.”

Head coach Dabo Swinney has long expressed interest in transitioning Schieffelin from basketball to football. “When he’s done with basketball, I’m gonna get him out here at D-end, tight end. That’s a football player,” Swinney joked last fall. “I’ll definitely have a spot.”

This upcoming season makes sense for Schieffelin to switch sports, as Clemson is experiencing limited depth at tight end following Jake Briningstool’s departure and Markus Dixon’s move to defense. Currently, Olsen Patt-Henry is projected as the starter, with Christian Bentancur and Logan Brooking providing inexperienced support.

Schieffelin, who is listed at 6-foot-8 and 240 pounds, could add significant athleticism and skill to the position. “I actually have pretty good hands. I think I’d be all right,” he mentioned, showing optimism for his football journey.

Clemson has seen athletes successfully switch between basketball and football before, with DeAndre Hopkins being a notable example. Hopkins played basketball in his freshman year before becoming one of the greatest receivers in NFL history.

As this news unfolds, the expectation is high for Schieffelin, who brings a unique crossover of skills that may surprise opposing defenses.