Eight South Carolina Football Players Featured on PFF’s NFL Draft Big Board

Shane Beamer’s South Carolina football team is making waves this offseason, with a legitimate chance to break the all-time program record for NFL Draft selections. Around a dozen Gamecocks have surfaced in NFL Draft projections, and the previous record of seven players drafted — set in 2009 and matched in 2013 — is now in jeopardy. Last week’s Pro Day provided a platform for several players to boost their draft stock.

On Monday, Pro Football Focus (PFF) released its updated 2025 NFL Draft Big Board, and according to PFF, eight USC players have a shot at hearing their names called this April. Six of those players fall within the top 257 picks, meaning, based on PFF’s rankings, the Gamecocks are unlikely to break their draft record this year.

At the top of PFF’s board is linebacker Demetrius Knight, who ranks No. 33 overall. PFF’s ranking places Knight higher than most other NFL Draft projections, which generally see him going in the second to fourth round range. With his impressive blend of size, speed, and intangibles, Knight remains an intriguing prospect for NFL teams.

Next up is defensive lineman TJ Sanders, who comes in at No. 36. Sanders has earned some consideration as a potential first-round pick, but most projections place him in the second or early third round. At No. 36 on PFF’s board, Sanders is seen as a top-tier second-rounder. His ability to play multiple positions on the defensive line only adds to his appeal.

A bit of a surprise on the list is All-American safety Nick Emmanwori, ranked No. 45. While most NFL Draft mocks predict Emmanwori will be selected in the first round — potentially as high as the top half of the round — PFF’s board is less bullish on his stock. Emmanwori’s impressive NFL Combine showing didn’t factor as heavily into PFF’s rankings, which are more focused on past seasons’ performances.

EDGE rusher Kyle Kennard sits at No. 65 on PFF’s board. The Bronko Nagurski Trophy winner had a standout year, leading the SEC in sacks and tackles for loss. While his draft stock has fluctuated this offseason, Kennard’s ability to fit into the right defensive system makes him a solid choice for an NFL team.

Cornerback O’Donnell Fortune is ranked No. 169. Fortune’s performance on the field last season was top-tier, even if his testing numbers didn’t stand out. With his length and ability to play faster than his 40-yard dash time suggests, Fortune has caught the attention of NFL scouts and should be a strong bet to be drafted.

Defensive lineman Tonka Hemingway ranks No. 185 on PFF’s list. Like Sanders, Hemingway’s versatility along the defensive front has generated interest from multiple teams. As an above-average athlete with the ability to impact both the passing and running game, Hemingway could see his draft stock rise in the coming weeks.

Running back Rocket Sanders is the seventh Gamecock on PFF’s board, ranking just outside the top 257 spots. Though PFF doesn’t project Sanders to be drafted, many other outlets have him pegged as a potential pick, with some projecting him as high as the fourth round.

Finally, punter Kai Kroeger is ranked No. 339. PFF doesn’t expect Kroeger to be drafted, but his inclusion on the list shows that NFL teams are taking notice of the left-footed punter. Even if he isn’t selected in the draft, Kroeger is expected to get a shot in the NFL this summer.

In addition to these eight players, tight end Josh Simon, linebacker Bam Martin-Scott, defensive tackle DeAndre Jules, and offensive lineman Torricelli Simpkins all received invites to the NFL Combine and could still be drafted in April. Other names to watch include wide receiver Dalevon Campbell, linebacker Debo Williams, defensive tackle Boogie Huntley, and offensive lineman Vershon Lee. Players like long snapper Hunter Rogers, wide receiver Gage Larvadain, offensive lineman Kamaar Bell, kicker Alex Herrera, EDGE/linebacker Gilber Edmond, and running back Juju McDowell may also garner post-draft attention.

The 2025 NFL Draft will take place in Green Bay, Wisconsin, from April 24th to April 26th. Fans can catch the event on NFL Network, ABC, or ESPN, and it will also be available for streaming via the ESPN app and NFL.com.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Gamecocks’ draft prospects as we approach the big weekend!