Clemson has made early moves in recruiting for the 2028 class, with Rabun Gap, Georgia, linebacker Jay Schell emerging as a priority target. Schell, who stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 214 pounds, has frequently visited the Clemson campus for recruiting events and game days.
His recruitment intensified with an offer from the Tigers on June 1, an outcome anticipated after extensive spring recruiting efforts. Defensive coordinator Tom Allen and linebackers coach Ben Boulware have been central to building a relationship with Schell. His most recent visit to the Upstate included a staff meeting where Clemson extended its first offer for the 2028 class.
Schell noted that the coaching staff emphasized his status as their priority linebacker for the class throughout the spring. He described the offer, presented by Coach Dabo Swinney during a staff meeting, as an honor and a special moment. Schell’s familiarity with the program and his visits have positioned Clemson strongly in his recruitment. He believes Coach Allen’s defensive scheme, which he describes as aggressive and versatile, would be a good fit for his playing style, allowing him to play both on and off the ball.
Schell, the son of former Clemson quarterback Matt Schell, concluded his sophomore season with 77 total tackles, including 61 solo tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and three sacks. He currently holds 45 offers from various institutions nationwide, including Auburn, Baylor, Colorado, Florida State, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Indiana, LSU, Miami, Texas A&M, and USC.
Key factors in Schell’s decision-making process include on and off-field development, relationships with his position coach and defensive coordinator, the defensive scheme, and the potential for winning championships. While he has not yet named any leaders in his recruitment, Schell plans to narrow down his options in the fall after additional visits.