In a move that has caught the attention of both college basketball and football fans, former Clemson men’s basketball forward Ian Schieffelin is officially making the switch from the hardwood to the gridiron, joining the Clemson football team ahead of the 2025 season. Known for his grit, physicality, and relentless energy on the basketball court, Schieffelin now sets his sights on carving out a new identity in a completely different sport.
Standing at 6-foot-8 and weighing over 240 pounds, Schieffelin has always brought a physical presence to the court. As a key contributor to the Tigers’ basketball success in recent years, he earned praise for his rebounding, interior defense, and ability to guard multiple positions. While not the flashiest player, his blue-collar work ethic and team-first mentality made him a fan favorite at Littlejohn Coliseum. Now, that same determination will be tested on the football field.
The transition is not unprecedented in college sports, but it is certainly rare—especially at a Power Five program like Clemson. Head football coach Dabo Swinney expressed excitement about adding Schieffelin to the roster, citing his athleticism, toughness, and competitive spirit as attributes that could translate well to football. “Ian is the kind of athlete who can succeed anywhere,” Swinney said. “He’s got great size, he’s a competitor, and most importantly, he’s coachable. We’re excited to see what he can bring to the team.”
It has not yet been confirmed what position Schieffelin will play, but early speculation suggests he could be used as a tight end or possibly a defensive end—roles that require size, strength, and agility, all qualities Schieffelin possesses. His background in basketball could prove especially useful in the tight end position, where footwork, body control, and ball-handling skills are valuable assets.
Schieffelin’s decision to switch sports also highlights a growing trend of multi-sport athletes at the collegiate level, particularly those looking to extend their athletic careers or find new opportunities after college. While he is unlikely to have any eligibility remaining for NCAA basketball, the NCAA permits players to use remaining eligibility in a different sport, making this move both strategic and feasible.
Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Schieffelin adapts to football. Though he faces a steep learning curve, his track record of improvement and resilience suggests he won’t back down from the challenge. The move also adds a layer of intrigue to Clemson’s offseason, as the program looks to bounce back from a couple of underwhelming football seasons.
Whether Schieffelin becomes a key contributor on the field or simply adds depth and leadership in the locker room, his journey is already a compelling story of athletic versatility, personal reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of competition. One thing is certain: Ian Schieffelin’s Clemson journey is far from over—only now, it continues on the turf instead of the hardwood.
