Ian Schieffelin Exits Clemson Football Program Ahead of Pinstripe Bowl
Ian Schieffelin’s unique two-sport journey at Clemson has come to an early close. The former All-ACC basketball standout turned tight end is no longer with the Tigers football team, head coach Dabo Swinney confirmed Monday, just weeks before Clemson takes on Penn State in the Pinstripe Bowl on Dec. 27.
“Ian’s out,” Swinney said. “Ian is not with us. He’s done.”
Swinney didn’t go into detail, choosing to let Schieffelin speak for himself if and when he decides to share more. But the message was clear: the experiment is over, at least for now.
Schieffelin was one of 27 scholarship players Swinney said won’t be available for the bowl game. That group includes 17 players sidelined by injury, five who’ve entered the transfer portal, four who opted out to prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft - and Schieffelin, who stepped away from the program.
From the Hardwood to the Gridiron
Schieffelin’s switch from basketball to football was one of the more intriguing storylines in Clemson athletics this year. A 6-foot-7, 260-pound forward, Schieffelin had already cemented his place in Clemson hoops history. Over four seasons, he helped the Tigers win a program-record 73 games, earned All-ACC First Team honors as a senior, and was named the league’s Most Improved Player as a junior.
When his basketball eligibility ran out after the 2024-25 season, Schieffelin took advantage of a lesser-known NCAA rule that allows athletes to play one season in a different sport within their five-year eligibility window. With a background in football - he played through his sophomore year of high school and had even drawn early recruiting interest from programs like Syracuse - Schieffelin made the jump to tight end.
It was a bold move, and while his role was limited, it certainly turned heads.
Limited Role, But Notable Impact
Schieffelin appeared in eight of Clemson’s 12 games this season, logging 20 snaps on offense. He caught two passes for 11 yards and was targeted in the end zone a few times. He also contributed on special teams, lining up on the field goal block unit.
It wasn’t a starring role, but considering the depth Clemson had at tight end and Schieffelin’s late transition to the sport, that wasn’t the expectation. What he did show was a willingness to embrace the grind and take on a challenge few athletes dare to try.
Swinney praised his progress throughout the season, noting in November that NFL scouts had taken notice of his athleticism and development in practice. “He’s building a nice little résumé,” Swinney said.
“Scouts are here every day watching him practice. So he’s made a ton of progress.”
That progress, however, came with a few bumps.
A Rocky Start
Schieffelin’s football season began under difficult circumstances. In August, he was arrested on suspicion of DUI and suspended for the season opener.
He later apologized publicly, and while the DUI charge was dropped, he pled guilty to a lesser offense. It was a setback, but one he appeared to take seriously as he worked his way back onto the field.
What’s Next?
It remains to be seen whether Schieffelin will pursue a professional career in either sport. He wasn’t projected as an NBA prospect coming out of college, but his basketball résumé could open doors overseas. On the football side, his size, athleticism, and raw potential - especially at a position like tight end where former basketball players have found success - could give him a shot at the next level, even if it’s a long road.
For now, though, Schieffelin’s time with Clemson football has come to an end. It was a brief but memorable chapter in an already impressive collegiate career - one that showcased not just his versatility, but his willingness to take risks and push boundaries.