Clemson Tigers star Ian Schieffelin arrested for DUI ahead of 2025 opener

A tall athlete is suddenly in the spotlight at Clemson University. Ian Schieffelin, once a standout on the Clemson Tigers basketball team, had just switched to football. Fans expected him to help head coach Dabo Swinney and the Clemson Tigers this season.

But before the first game, something unexpected happened off the field. That decision has now raised questions about his future and changed his start to the season.

Ian Schieffelin arrested on suspicion of DUI confirmed by Dabo Swinney

On August 17, Ian Schieffelin, a 22-year-old athlete at Clemson University, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. The news was first shared by journalist M. David Hood and confirmed by Chapel Fowler on X. Head coach Dabo Swinney released a public statement on Sunday, August 17.

Swinney said the team is aware of the incident. He added that Schieffelin will “miss some competition to start this season as a consequence.” The program follows a set policy on DUI cases. According to Swinney, this policy applies to every player, no matter their background.

Reports say the arrest happened in Clemson, South Carolina. Local police confirmed the stop but did not release full details about the traffic violation.

The case is still under review. Swinney said the team will wait for more information before any further decisions are made.This news came at a crucial time for Clemson football. The Tigers are close to opening their 2025 season, and Schieffelin had only just joined the team in May. He was expected to provide depth in the tight end position, which has been thin since the graduation of the starter from last year. His sudden absence means the lineup will need adjustments.

Ian Schieffelin’s switch from basketball to football and how Clemson will adjust

Ian Schieffelin is well known on campus. He played four years of basketball at Clemson university till March 2025. At 6 feet 8 inches and 240 pounds, he was a strong forward who earned ACC Most Improved Player in 2024 and Second-team All-ACC in 2025.In May 2025, he made the move to football. He joined Dabo Swinney’s Clemson Tigers football team as a tight end. The decision gave him a new chance to compete at a high level, even with a limited football background.

Coaches hoped his size and athletic skills would help the offense.Now, his future looks uncertain. The tight end group must depend on other names like Olsen Patt-Henry, Josh Sapp, and Christian Bentancur. They will step in as the team prepares for its opening game. Fans are curious to see how Swinney manages the position without the recruit.On social media, reactions came fast. One fan wrote, “Experiment turned into a big distraction.

Obviously wasn’t all in or committed to team. Individual actions have group consequences.”

Other said, “As he should”

Another user said, “Shouldn’t get to be part of the team at all tbh”

Clemson football begins its season later in August 2025. Schieffelin’s role is now in question, and his case has sparked debate on discipline and responsibility in college sports. The Tigers will move forward, but the absence of a two-sport athlete adds one more challenge before kickoff.Also Read: Jonathan Kuminga bold claim on Cade Cunningham Scottie Barnes level sparks NBA buzz