Clemson Signee Tanner Tessmann Signs With MLS Team FC Dallas

Clemson signee Tanner Tessmann has signed a three-year contract with FC Dallas, choosing a professional soccer career over playing college football.

“I’m excited to get started,” Tessmann said. “Signing a professional contract has been a goal of mine since I moved to Texas to join the Academy at 14 years old. I’ve made a lot of sacrifices to get this opportunity, so it meant a lot to have my family here with me today.”

30 SPORTS FIGURES WHO DIED IN 2018 – TRIBUTE SLIDESHOW 

Tessmann had signed with Clemson soccer and would also have kicked for the football team. Tessman, who had never played football, was given the chance with Dabo Swinney due to his father’s close relationship with the elite football coach.

Swinney has said he was the only person on the planet who knew of Tessmann’s football ability because of his ability to kick 45 to 50 yards in the eighth grade.

“He’s one of the best athletes,” Swinney said. “He could go play D-I basketball. He could probably start at receiver at Clemson. He could probably play safety at Clemson. He’s a 6-foot-2 phenom. He can fly. He’s as good athlete as I’ve ever seen.”

Article by Austin Letorney