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  • Exclusive South Carolina Player Interviews and Expert Analysis from the 2025 NFL Combine

    The excitement surrounding the 2025 NFL Combine is palpable as 11 South

    The excitement surrounding the 2025 NFL Combine is palpable as 11 South Carolina Gamecocks athletes make their way to Indianapolis to showcase their skills in front of NFL scouts, coaches, and decision-makers. The group includes standout players such as Nick Emmanwori, TJ Sanders, Kyle Kennard, Demetrius Knight, Rocket Sanders, O’Donnell Fortune, Josh Simon, Tonka Hemingway, Bam Martin-Scott, Torricelli Simpkins, and DeAndre Jules. Additionally, punter Kai Kroeger is participating in the NFL Combine Specialist Showcase.

    With this impressive showing, South Carolina has the chance to break its all-time draft selection record. The program previously had seven players drafted in both 2009 and 2013. This year, with a record 11 Gamecocks invited to the combine, it’s entirely possible that at least seven could hear their names called in April’s draft.

    While the on-field action is always a highlight, media and teams are also conducting in-depth interviews with players. Here are some key comments made by the Gamecocks and analysts during the early days of the Combine:

    Nick Emmanwori – Safety

    One of the biggest stories at this year’s combine is Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina’s All-American safety, who is exuding confidence. When asked which NFL player he models his game after, he didn’t hesitate to compare himself to Ravens All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton. “I’m 6-3, 223 (like Hamilton),” Emmanwori explained. “I’m a bigger dude, and I can run. So, I’m not really scared to go make tackles, cover slots, or cover tight ends.”

    But Emmanwori didn’t stop there. Projected by some as the top safety in the draft, he boldly stated, “I don’t think you’ve ever seen a safety like me… with my size, my speed, and my ability.” He further added, “Growing up, I used to play corner, so my footwork is probably the best of this safety class.”

    Known for his speed, Emmanwori was also asked about his expectations for the 40-yard dash. The potential first-round pick was confident, saying, “4.3,” which would be faster than Hamilton’s Combine time of 4.5 seconds.

    ESPN’s Jordan Reid: Nick Emmanwori “A Player to Watch”

    Before hitting the field, Nick Emmanwori is already getting attention. ESPN Draft analyst Jordan Reid singled him out, saying, “He’s the one player I would recommend having an eye on” at the NFL Combine. With the spotlight shining on him, Emmanwori continues to be one of the most talked-about prospects heading into the event.

    Kai Kroeger – Punter

    While much of the focus has been on the position players, former Gamecock punter Kai Kroeger is also making waves. After a standout performance at the East-West Shrine Bowl, Kroeger received an invitation to the NFL Combine Specialist Showcase. Expressing his excitement, Kroeger said, “It means the world to me. As a kid growing up with dreams of playing in the NFL, the Combine is what you hope to get to for the NFL process.”

    Kyle Kennard – Edge Rusher

    Kyle Kennard has been making headlines as well, especially for the growth he’s shown under new position coach Sterling Lucas. During a conversation at the Combine, Kennard recalled how Lucas helped him refine his technique. “He kind of modernized the game for me,” Kennard said, reflecting on the small adjustments that turned his game around.

    After a season where he recorded 11.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles-for-loss, Kennard credits his improvement to Lucas. “It’s a testament to my coach,” Kennard said. “He helped me be me more.”

    On Thursday, Kennard will be showing what he can do on the field, hoping to solidify his spot as a Day 2 pick in the upcoming draft.

    Demetrius Knight – Linebacker

    While many Gamecocks have stood out for their on-field abilities, Demetrius Knight also made an impression with his off-the-field comments. Reflecting on his journey from quarterback to linebacker, Knight shared, “I thought I’d be here right now as a quarterback… but now I’m the quarterback of the defense.”

    A former quarterback, Knight discussed how the transition to linebacker was challenging, especially with the added responsibility of making tackles. “Doing the hitting was something very foreign to me,” he said with a laugh, but he credits his time at South Carolina for helping him make the adjustment.

    Looking ahead to 2025, Knight is excited about South Carolina’s future. He said, “South Carolina is going to be a team to reckon with for years and years to come. As long as Beamer’s there doing his thing, they’re going to be a great team to watch.”

    Tonka Hemingway & TJ Sanders – Defensive Line

    In interviews this week, Tonka Hemingway and TJ Sanders both reflected on how playing multiple sports in high school helped shape their football careers. Hemingway, who played both baseball and basketball, explained, “I feel like it all comes in one. It has helped me in this sport (football).”

    For Sanders, his basketball background helped him develop his pass-rushing abilities. “A lot of my inside moves come from me thinking about a crossover,” Sanders said. He’s added that his time on the hardwood has made him “a faster d-tackle” who is “quicker than most interior guys.”

    As the 2025 NFL Combine progresses, the Gamecocks continue to impress both on and off the field. With strong showings already from Emmanwori, Kennard, and others, this group is poised to make a significant impact on the upcoming NFL Draft. Stay tuned for more updates as these players continue their journey toward the pros.

  • Watch: Nick Emmanwori Opens Up About NFL Talks and His development at South Carolina

    As the NFL Combine kicks off this week, several former South Carolina Gamecocks are showcasing their talents, but one player drawing significant attention is safety Nick Emmanwori. The standout defensive player had a media session on Thursday where he covered a variety of topics, including his interactions with NFL teams and his development during his time at South Carolina.

    Emmanwori, who is considered one of the top safeties in this year’s draft class, hasn’t solidified himself as a first-round pick yet. However, there’s a strong expectation that he will impress at the combine. Emmanwori, standing at 6’3″ and 220 pounds, confidently predicts that he’ll run a 4.3 in the 40-yard dash.

    Reflecting on his college career, Emmanwori accumulated 244 tackles, four tackles for loss, and six interceptions during his time at South Carolina. His ability to make plays consistently on the field is one of the reasons he’s being highly regarded as he prepares for the next level.

    If Emmanwori’s performance at the combine matches his predictions, his draft stock could surge by the end of the weekend, making him one of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s draft class.

    More news…..

    South Carolina Gamecocks Eliminated from Jared Curtis Recruitment Race

    In a major development for the 2026 recruiting class, Jared Curtis has officially narrowed down his college choices, and unfortunately, the South Carolina Gamecocks have been cut from the running.

    On Saturday, the highly coveted five-star quarterback announced that his decision is now down to Georgia and Oregon. This leaves South Carolina on the outside looking in, as the Gamecocks no longer appear to be in contention for Curtis’s commitment.

    However, it’s important to note that Curtis has made it clear he will only be taking official visits to Georgia and Oregon, despite previously planning to visit South Carolina in late June. While this doesn’t completely shut the door on the Gamecocks, it does place them at a significant disadvantage.

    Curtis, who is regarded as the No. 1 quarterback and the second-best player overall in the 2026 class, is also considered the best player from Tennessee according to composite rankings. His status as a five-star recruit makes his decision a highly watched one.

    Even though it’s still early in the recruiting cycle, and the Gamecocks have ample opportunities to secure a strong class this year, missing out on Curtis is undoubtedly a blow.

    Currently, South Carolina has five commitments in the 2026 class, with J’Zavien Currence, a standout safety who has been committed since last October, leading the charge.

  • NFL GM Praises LaNorris Sellers’ Development at South Carolina

    LaNorris Sellers

    I am reporting on one of the most intriguing stories in college football right now—South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, who has rapidly transformed from a little-known three-star recruit into one of the most promising quarterbacks heading into the 2025 season.

    Sellers, now entering his second year as the Gamecocks’ starting quarterback, has already earned significant attention from NFL scouts. According to an NFL general manager who spoke exclusively with Gamecocks on SI, Sellers has climbed up NFL draft boards despite still being early in his college career.

    When Sellers first joined South Carolina out of South Florence, South Carolina, he wasn’t a high-profile recruit. But his commitment to the Gamecocks was an early indication that head coach Shane Beamer and his staff saw something special. As one NFL GM stated, the development of Sellers has been nothing short of impressive.

    “I’ve been really impressed with that coaching staff’s ability to develop their young quarterback,” the GM shared. It’s clear that Beamer and his staff have recognized Sellers’ potential and helped him grow into a star. But as the Gamecocks look to the future, they face another challenge—continuity at the offensive coordinator position. Dowell Loggains served as offensive coordinator for Sellers’ first two seasons, but this year, the team is handing the reins to former NFL coordinator Mike Shula.

    Behind Sellers, South Carolina has some other promising prospects on the roster. Notably, former Ohio State quarterback Air Noland made the move to South Carolina this offseason after sitting out a year in Columbus. Noland, a four-star prospect out of Langston Hughes High School, is looking to follow in Sellers’ footsteps and develop into a key player. The Gamecocks also have an exciting young talent in freshman Cutter Woods, who brings a strong physical profile.

    And looking even further into the future, South Carolina is making a strong push for Landon Duckworth, an Under Armour All-American from the class of 2026. This shows that the Gamecocks are not only looking to capitalize on Sellers’ success but are also setting the stage for continued development at the quarterback position.

    With all eyes on Sellers and the quarterbacks behind him, South Carolina’s future at the position is looking bright.

  • 2025 NFL Draft Player Analysis: T.J. Sanders

    T.J. Sanders NFL Draft Profile: A Dynamic Defensive Prospect for the Chicago Bears?

    Diving into the profile of South Carolina’s defensive tackle T.J. Sanders. Let’s break down his background, strengths, weaknesses, potential fit with the Chicago Bears, and what his NFL comparison looks like.

    T.J. Sanders – The Basics

    • College: South Carolina
    • Position: Defensive Tackle (DT)
    • Ideal NFL Position: Even Front 3T, with potential to serve as Odd Front DE
    • Height / Weight: 6’4″, 284 pounds
    • Arm Length / Hand Size: 33.625″ / 10.25″
    • Year / Age: RS Junior, 21 (turns 22 in July)
    • Draft Projection: Late 1st / Early 2nd Round
    • Where I’d Take Him: Top 60 picks

    Background Check: From High School to the Gamecocks

    T.J. Sanders, hailing from Marion, South Carolina, was a three-star recruit and ranked the 75th-best defensive lineman nationally out of high school. With offers from Power 5 schools like Duke, Tennessee, Virginia Tech, West Virginia, and Indiana, Sanders ultimately chose South Carolina.

    During his time with the Gamecocks, Sanders has proven himself as a starter, participating in 16 of his 39 career games. In 2024, he played over 400 snaps in each of his last two seasons and ranked second among South Carolina defensive tackles with 468 snaps. As for his pass-rushing capabilities, Sanders recorded 33 pressures and five sacks on 255 pass-rush snaps in 2024, showcasing his ability to make an impact.

    Strengths:

    • Athleticism and Physical Traits: Sanders is a fluid athlete with quick feet and an explosive upper body. His lateral movement is a standout feature when he’s at his best.
    • Length: At 6’4″, Sanders knows how to use his length to overpower blockers and shed them with ease.
    • Relentless Hands: His fast hands—constantly popping, swimming, and tossing blockers—demonstrate a growing knowledge of how to execute a pass-rush plan.
    • Contact Balance: Sanders shows excellent body control and balance, allowing him to slip through blockers with ease.
    • Bend: His flexibility allows him to absorb power from awkward positions without losing his base or compromising leverage.

    Weaknesses:

    • Lateral Footwork: When Sanders moves horizontally, his footwork can look inefficient, affecting his ability to hold his ground on stunts.
    • Pad Level: His upright posture limits his initial quickness and bull-rush ability. While many expect Sanders to test well athletically, his tape only shows an average burst.
    • Size and Power Profile: At 284 pounds, Sanders is a bit light for a traditional 3-technique role in the NFL, often preferring to maneuver around blockers rather than pushing through them.
    • Hesitation: Having only played football since his junior year of high school, Sanders occasionally shows hesitation in his play. The question remains: will he become more decisive with experience?
    • Conditioning: Sanders has shown signs of fatigue in the later stages of games, even though he ranked 145th in snaps played among FBS defensive tackles. His early-game impact is notable, but consistency may be a concern.

    Fit with the Chicago Bears:

    T.J. Sanders is a dynamic and promising defensive tackle, projected to go early in the draft. His skill set could make him a strong fit for an even-front 3-technique role or potentially as a defensive end in an odd front. Sanders has displayed an impressive pass-rushing ability in college, leveraging his athleticism and hand usage to disrupt opposing offenses.

    However, there are areas where Sanders needs improvement. His lateral footwork and upright posture could limit his effectiveness at the next level, and his size might restrict his versatility in certain defensive schemes. Despite these challenges, Sanders should be a capable rotational player for a defensive line, especially in a pass-rushing role.

    Sanders has the potential to be a solid starter in the NFL, but he’ll need to become more consistent with his burst and decision-making. If he can refine his technique and add more bulk, he could develop into a key contributor on a defensive line.

    As for the Bears, Sanders could be a strong option at picks 39 or 41 in the draft. However, the team may prioritize other defensive tackles who offer more power and strength upfront, as the Bears’ defensive line could use some added muscle to complement their existing depth. Sanders could be a solid replacement for recently departed DeMarcus Walker and would fit well into Chicago’s defensive philosophy, provided he continues to develop and adjust his playstyle at the NFL level.

    That’s the latest on T.J. Sanders as the draft approaches! Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our coverage of top prospects.

  • South Carolina Star Nick Emmanwori Brims with Confidence at NFL Combine

    South Carolina All-American Nick Emmanwori is one of 12 Gamecocks showcasing their talent this week. The dynamic safety took to the podium on Thursday and displayed a high level of confidence as he prepares for Friday’s on-field workouts.

    When asked by the media which NFL player he models his game after, Emmanwori didn’t hesitate to name Ravens All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton. “I’m 6-3, 223 (like Hamilton),” Emmanwori said. “I’m a bigger dude, and I can run. So, like, I’m not really scared to go make tackles, I’m not scared to cover any slots, I’m not scared to cover any tight ends.”

    Hamilton, a two-time All-Pro, is widely regarded as one of the most versatile safeties in the NFL. Emmanwori, similarly, brings that versatile skill set to the table.

    Over his three years at South Carolina, Emmanwori led the Gamecocks in tackles twice and finished second in tackles-per-game during another season. In his final 15 games, he totaled six interceptions. Like Hamilton, Emmanwori has shown he can perform in various roles — from playing deep safety to being in the box, covering the slot at nickel, or even guarding wide receivers.

    But Emmanwori wasn’t finished making bold statements. Projected by some to be the top safety in this draft class, he believes he should go early in April’s draft. “I don’t think you’ve ever seen a safety like me…with my size, my speed, and my ability,” he declared. He went on to add, “Growing up I used to play corner, so my footwork is probably the best of this safety class.”

    As one of the fastest players on the Gamecocks’ roster in recent years, it wasn’t surprising when the media turned their attention to his 40-yard dash. Emmanwori confirmed that he plans to participate in the combine’s workouts on Friday and confidently predicted a 4.3-second time. “4.3,” he said without hesitation. For context, that would be faster than Hamilton’s 40-yard time at the combine, where he ran in the 4.5 range.

    Emmanwori’s unwavering confidence is a hallmark of his football journey, and it’s clear why. His impressive career, combined with a strong showing at the NFL Combine, positions him as one of the top prospects heading into the draft.

    If Emmanwori hears his name called in the first round, he’ll make history as only the second South Carolina safety ever selected that high. The first was combo safety/corner Rick Sanford, who was taken 25th overall by the New England Patriots in 1979.

  • Kyle Kennard: “Sterling Lucas Modernized My Game”

    South Carolina Assistant Coach’s Influence on Kyle Kennard’s Breakout Year

    At the NFL Combine, South Carolina assistant coach Sterling Lucas was reflecting on his work with Kyle Kennard, particularly the impact his guidance had during Kennard’s time with the Gamecocks. Kennard, fresh off a strong season at Georgia Tech, had a solid 2022 campaign, leading the Yellow Jackets with six sacks and 11 tackles-for-loss. However, Lucas saw areas where small adjustments could make a huge difference.

    In an exclusive interview with Nicole Auerbach this week, Kennard shared how Lucas’ feedback helped him fine-tune his technique: “I sat down and watched film with my new position coach Sterling Lucas. He told me I could have had about 10 (sacks),” Kennard revealed. “We sat there and watched a lot of things that I could have done better—things at the top of the rush, like ripping, bending, turning my toe—things like that. I kind of emphasized those things more this year.”

    Kennard not only responded to the challenge but surpassed expectations. He recorded an impressive 11.5 sacks, finishing the season with 28 tackles, 15.5 tackles-for-loss, and one of the highest PFF pass-rush grades in the SEC. His dominant performance earned him All-American honors and made him the first Bronko Nagurski Trophy winner in South Carolina history.

    “It definitely had a lot to do with coaching,” Kennard said, attributing much of his success to Lucas. “He kind of modernized the game for me in a way. A lot of coaches are set in their ways of doing things. I had great coaches at my last institution, don’t get me wrong, but he kind of helped me and let me be me more.”

    Now a Day 2 NFL draft prospect, Kennard is aiming to boost his stock even further at the NFL Combine this week. On Thursday, the on-field drills for defensive linemen and linebackers will take place, followed by the bench press on Friday.

    On Wednesday, Kennard had the chance to meet with NFL teams and the media, where he made it clear what he offers to any team that picks him: “I’m telling them that I’m a complete defensive end,” he said. “I can rush the passer as well as make plays in the backfield in the running game and that I’m the total package.”

    Back in South Carolina, both coaches and players are rallying behind Kennard, who made a significant impact in his one season with the team. Reflecting on his time at South Carolina, Kennard is confident about the future of the program.

    “We just knew that we could do something real special,” Kennard said. “We tried to do that. We had some bumps and bruises early on, and we kind of got those fixed more throughout the season. But really, I talk about this all the time—next season, the sky’s the limit for those guys. I mean, they’ve got one of the best defensive players returning. LaNorris Sellers on offense is returning back. They’re adding key pieces everywhere, and I just think they’re gonna be unstoppable this season.”

    Kennard’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable, and it’s clear that he’s now ready for the next step in his football career.

  • Another top-tier defensive lineman added to South Carolina’s official visit list

    Trashawn Ruffin
    Aiden Harris

    South Carolina’s football program continues to strengthen its defensive line by securing official visits from top-tier prospects. The state of North Carolina, in particular, is producing a wealth of talent in the 2026 recruiting class, with several elite defensive linemen expressing interest in the Gamecocks.

    Aiden Harris Plans Return Visit

    Aiden Harris, a four-star defensive lineman from North Carolina, has expressed plans to return to South Carolina for an official visit. Harris is also considering visits to other Southeastern Conference (SEC) schools, indicating a competitive recruitment process.

    Noah Clark Schedules Official Visit

    Noah Clark, another four-star defensive tackle, has scheduled an official visit to South Carolina for the weekend of June 6. Clark’s visit is anticipated to provide the Gamecocks with an opportunity to showcase their program and facilities.

    Trashawn Ruffin’s Interest in South Carolina

    Trashawn Ruffin, who committed to Texas A&M in October, has indicated that South Carolina is among several schools he is considering. This suggests that the Gamecocks remain a viable option for Ruffin, despite his commitment elsewhere.

    The influx of elite defensive line talent from North Carolina underscores the state’s prominence in the 2026 recruiting class. South Carolina’s engagement with these prospects highlights the program’s commitment to enhancing its defensive front.

    As the recruitment process unfolds, the Gamecocks will continue to evaluate and pursue these top-tier defensive linemen, aiming to bolster their roster for the upcoming seasons.

    More news…..

    Brady Hunt Rejoins Garnet Trust, confirming his return to South Carolina Football

    Brady Hunt

    In a significant development for South Carolina football, Brady Hunt, a 6-foot-5, 253-pound tight end, has signed a new NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal with the Gamecocks’ official collective, The Garnet Trust, ensuring his return to the program for the upcoming season.

    Hunt, who transferred to South Carolina from Ball State last offseason, was part of the Gamecocks’ three-man tight end rotation in 2024 alongside Joshua Simon and Michael Smith. He made valuable contributions during the season, recording two receptions for 22 yards, including a key first-down grab late in the victory over Missouri. Known for his versatility both as a blocker and a receiver, Hunt is expected to take on an even larger role next season, especially with Simon having exhausted his eligibility.

    Before joining South Carolina, Hunt had an impressive 2022 season at Ball State, where he caught 46 passes for 498 yards and five touchdowns. His strong performance at Ball State and subsequent transfer to the Gamecocks highlight his potential to become a key player in South Carolina’s offensive game plan.

    This new NIL deal underscores the Gamecocks’ commitment to player retention, with The Garnet Trust playing a crucial role in securing such agreements. Retaining players like Hunt is essential for the program’s continued success, and head coach Shane Beamer has stressed the importance of building strong relationships and maintaining open communication to keep the team unified and motivated.

     

  • A Glimpse at South Carolina’s Future NFL Combine Contenders

    TBD

    South Carolina Football’s Big NFL Combine Presence—2025 and Beyond

    Hello, fans! Reporting live on the big news coming from South Carolina football—the Gamecocks are sending 11 players to the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis this week, setting a new school record. To put that into perspective, the previous record was just seven players back in 2013, with six being the next highest in past years. As we sit here today, who could have predicted such a monumental number for 2025? Certainly, not many of us.

    Now, let’s fast-forward to 2026 and get ahead of the game. Even though it’s early to predict the number of Gamecocks who might make the next NFL Combine, let’s set an over/under for the 2026 combine at 5.5. Here’s a rundown of potential players to watch, who might make that cut.

    Big Names for 2026: Nyck Harbor, Jalon Kilgore, LaNorris Sellers

    All three of these players are entering their third seasons at South Carolina and are expected to be among the most likely pro prospects in the next year.

    • Nyck Harbor has shown significant improvement, particularly toward the end of the 2024 season. His late-season strides place him on the radar as a potential big riser in 2025. If he continues to grow, especially as a wide receiver, we could be hearing a lot about Harbor come next year’s pre-draft coverage.
    • Jalon Kilgore made a massive impact in 2024, tying for first in the SEC with five interceptions—a stat that shouldn’t be overlooked. He’s a name to watch closely. Kilgore’s rise will also likely benefit from the success of teammate Nick Emmanwori, who plays in the same position group. But Kilgore’s play will stand strong on its own merit.
    • LaNorris Sellers is a quarterback to watch closely. He’ll have had two full seasons as a starter by the time he decides to enter the draft, which is typically the baseline for NFL scouts. Sellers generated considerable buzz in 2024 and is even in the conversation for the top quarterback in the 2025 draft class, though it’s worth noting that the quarterback group for 2025 isn’t the strongest.

    Other Gamecocks to Keep an Eye On

    There’s also a group of players with one remaining season of eligibility, who will need to prove themselves to be serious draft prospects. This group includes DQ Smith, Bryan Thomas Jr., Monkell Goodwine, and Nick Barrett.

    • Smith has been one of the most active defensive players since 2022, and he’s set to play a major role again in 2025.
    • Thomas, who has started in seven games, has a chance to secure a starting role, especially with an open spot at defensive end.
    • Goodwine and Barrett have the opportunity to step up into starting roles and make a name for themselves.

    The cornerback position will be another area of healthy competition, with Judge Collier, Vicari Swain, Myles Norwood, and Brandon Cisse all vying for spots. While it may be tough for multiple cornerbacks to make the cut in 2026, expect at least one or two to possibly land invites by 2027.

    Offensive Prospects: Running Backs and Offensive Linemen

    On offense, Oscar Adaway III and Rahsul Faison are potential candidates to keep an eye on, especially if they have solid seasons in 2025. Both will be considered older by then, with Faison turning 25 and Adaway approaching 25, but they haven’t yet accumulated significant mileage, so they may still be in the mix.

    In the offensive line, Nick Gargiulo received an invite for 2024, while Torricelli Simpkins III is representing South Carolina this week. Could another transfer offensive lineman make their mark for 2026? Nick Sharpe, Rodney Newsom Jr., and Boaz Stanley are the names to watch, but their success will depend on securing a starting position and performing at a high level.

    In the tight end group, Jared Brown, Jordan Dingle, and Brady Hunt are potential invitees, though it’s unclear if any will lock down a starting role and produce enough to warrant an invite. However, at least one could emerge as a standout.

    Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond

    TBD

    If South Carolina can send 11 players to the 2026 NFL Combine, it would likely mean a successful season for the Gamecocks under Shane Beamer in Year 5. In football, a roster filled with future pros usually signals a team that’s capable of winning plenty of games. While success isn’t guaranteed, the correlation between strong talent and a strong team is clear.

    Interestingly, the 2025 South Carolina squad is even younger than the 2024 team, which could offer additional opportunities for rising stars.

    Additionally, keep an eye on Shawn Murphy and Justin Okoronkwo, two transfer linebackers who could find themselves in the mix for 2026. Though both have minimal college experience so far, they are still eligible for the upcoming seasons and could be key contributors.

    Lastly, Jatius Geer, who started in 12 games for Syracuse in 2022 but has only started one for South Carolina since transferring, could see his role expand in 2025. If he can earn a starting position and stay healthy, he could be in the running for a 2026 combine invite.

    Wrapping Up

    It’s possible we missed a few names or didn’t fully account for someone who will emerge this season. There’s always room for surprises, whether it’s a player already on the roster or a new addition joining later this year. Stay tuned to TheBigSpur for all the latest coverage of South Carolina’s 2025 NFL Draft prospects. With the combine just around the corner, followed by pro days and the draft itself, it’s shaping up to be an exciting few months ahead for Gamecocks football.

  • Kyle Kennard offers bold prediction for South Carolina EDGE teammate Dylan Stewart

    Kyle Kennard offers bold prediction for South Carolina EDGE teammate Dylan Stewart.

    Reporting live from the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, former South Carolina football star Kyle Kennard is making waves this week as he prepares for the NFL Draft. After an outstanding season with the Gamecocks, Kennard is looking to boost his draft stock in front of NFL decision-makers. This week, he’ll undergo measurements, drills, on-field testing, and interviews, giving executives a chance to assess both his athletic ability and character.

    When Kennard spoke with the media on Wednesday, he shared his thoughts on various topics, but one comment in particular is turning heads among South Carolina fans. When asked about his EDGE partner, Dylan Stewart, Kennard couldn’t hold back his admiration for the rising sophomore.

    “That’s my little brother, man. I love Dylan,” Kennard said, beaming with pride. “I’ll start off by saying that.” Kennard then shifted his focus to Stewart’s future in the NFL, emphasizing just how much of a star the young player will be. “Most importantly, [Stewart] will definitely be a first-round pick,” Kennard confidently predicted. “He’s a top-10 lock, for sure.”

    Given Kennard’s experience as a dominant EDGE player himself, his endorsement of Stewart carries a lot of weight. The two formed one of the most formidable pass-rush duos in the country this season, with Kennard earning praise for his standout play and Stewart drawing attention as a potential future star.

    Kennard is expected to be a day-two pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Although some analysts have even projected him to go in the first round, most mock drafts place him in the second or third rounds. His final season at South Carolina was nothing short of spectacular, earning him the prestigious Bronko Nagurski Trophy as the nation’s top defensive player and a consensus All-American honor. He led the SEC in both sacks (11.5) and tackles for loss (15.5), and his defensive prowess earned him multiple SEC Player of the Year and SEC Defensive Player of the Year awards.

    Together, Kennard and Stewart made life miserable for opposing quarterbacks, even as they faced constant holding from offensive linemen. Their impact this season has been reminiscent of the dominance once displayed by Jadeveon Clowney during his time in Columbia. While Kennard’s numbers speak for themselves, Stewart’s potential has been widely recognized as well.

    It’s not just Kennard who believes in Stewart’s future. Earlier this offseason, Fox Sports analyst Rob Rang boldly stated that Stewart would have been a top-10 pick in this year’s NFL Draft if he were eligible. Additionally, both SEC Network analyst Cole Cubelic and On3 ranked Stewart as the No. 3 returning player in college football for the 2025 season.

    Though Stewart still has two years before he can declare for the draft, Kennard will spend a few more days in Indianapolis with 11 of his Gamecock teammates, all competing for a shot at the NFL. Keep following our NFL Combine Headquarters for all the latest updates from Indianapolis!

    For more discussions on South Carolina football, check out The Insiders Forum.

  • 11 Gamecocks Earn Spot at NFL Scouting Combine

    Gamecocks Take to the NFL Scouting Combine

    As the NFL Scouting Combine kicks off this week in Indianapolis, the atmosphere is filled with excitement and anticipation. Some South Carolina Gamecocks are already aware of their likely destination in the draft, while others are focused on improving their position. Regardless of their current status, all of them share one common goal: to perform at their best and possibly exceed expectations.

    A total of 11 Gamecocks are participating in this week’s Combine, each striving to influence the odds in their favor as they head toward the NFL Draft in late April. While performing well in the various tests isn’t a guarantee for a draft pick, securing a spot at the Combine is a significant step toward achieving that goal.

    Currently, there are 329 prospects competing for a spot, with only 224 guaranteed draft selections. This number could increase thanks to compensatory picks (as we saw last year, where 257 players were drafted). While there’s always a chance for players to make an NFL roster as undrafted free agents (UDFAs), draft picks have the advantage of signing bonuses and, in the case of first-round selections, guaranteed contracts.

    Some Gamecocks, however, are already on the radar for first-round picks. Safety Nick Emmanwori, who recently topped a “Freaks” list of Combine attendees, is in prime position for a multimillion-dollar contract come April. Meanwhile, Kyle Kennard, who made a huge leap from solid defensive end to SEC Defensive Player of the Year and winner of the prestigious Bronko Nagurski Trophy, is also eyeing a potential first-round selection.

    For these players, the Combine serves as an opportunity to solidify their standing, but it’s just one of the many steps in a long journey. They’ll also have USC’s Pro Timing Day on March 18 to showcase their skills once again before the big day arrives in late April.

    Stay tuned as these Gamecocks look to shine at the NFL Scouting Combine and beyond.