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  • Four South Carolina Football Players Receive Strong Projections in NFL Draft Mock

    This week, the College Football Network (CFN) released its latest 2025 NFL Draft projections, and South Carolina football is well-represented with several players expected to be early selections. According to CFN, four Gamecocks are projected to be drafted within the first 55 picks.

    Leading the charge is safety Nick Emmanwori, who CFN has going to the Buffalo Bills at No. 30. The All-American safety has been a standout in his role, particularly with his growth in coverage. CFN’s Will Helms highlighted Emmanwori’s evolution, noting, “While Emmanwori’s always been a thumper in the back, unafraid of coming downhill to stop the run, he showcased elite ball skills in 2024.” If selected in the first round, Emmanwori will join the ranks of Rick Sanford, another All-American and the only Gamecock safety ever taken that high.

    At No. 43, defensive lineman TJ Sanders is projected to go to the San Francisco 49ers. Despite a down year for the 49ers in 2024, the team could be primed for a strong comeback in 2025, especially with improvements to their interior defensive line. Helms believes Sanders, who was an All-SEC contributor for USC, could surpass his college success in the pros, stating he “could become a better pro than college player.” Although Sanders has received first-round draft grades, he’s most likely to go in the second round.

    Demetrius Knight, a linebacker, slots in at No. 46 in CFN’s mock draft, where the Atlanta Falcons are expected to pick him. Known for his combination of size and speed, Knight would be a great addition to the Falcons’ defense. Helms suggests Knight’s draft stock could rise further after the NFL Combine, with recent projections ranging from the second to the sixth round, but trending upward as of now.

    Finally, EDGE Kyle Kennard rounds out the Gamecocks in the CFN mock, with a projected pick at No. 55 by the Green Bay Packers. Kennard’s versatility, having been effective as both a stand-up EDGE rusher and a hand-in-the-dirt defensive end, aligns with the Packers’ needs. After winning the prestigious Bronko Nagurski Trophy, Kennard has earned NFL Draft grades ranging from the first to the fourth round, though he is most often projected as a second or third-rounder.

    These four players are just the beginning, with several other Gamecocks also expected to hear their names called during the 2025 NFL Draft. With strong representation, South Carolina could break its all-time record for players selected in a single draft, which was set at seven in both 2009 and 2013.

    The 2025 NFL Draft will be held from April 24th to April 26th in Green Bay, Wisconsin, with coverage across ABC, NFL Network, and ESPN.

  • Jared Curtis Names His Top Three Schools, Featuring South Carolina Gamecocks

    Jared Curtis

    Jared Curtis, the nation’s top-ranked quarterback, has officially named his top three favorite schools, and South Carolina made the cut.

    Although early signing day is still ten months away, the competition to secure Curtis, the #1 QB in the class of 2026, is already fierce. Speaking to On3, Curtis revealed, “I really like three schools; Georgia, Oregon, and South Carolina.”

    In a surprising twist, South Carolina has stayed in the mix, even after Dowel Loggins, the Gamecocks’ primary recruiter for Curtis, accepted the head coaching position at Appalachian State. Just weeks ago, Head Coach Shane Beamer and offensive coordinator Mike Shula visited Curtis in Nashville, TN, where Curtis shared that the visit was “great.”

    Despite decommitting from Georgia in November 2024, the Bulldogs are still seen as the frontrunner to land the five-star quarterback. However, South Carolina has no plans of backing down in their pursuit of Curtis. The standout QB is set to take an official on-campus visit to Columbia, SC, on June 20th. That weekend will also feature several high-profile recruits, including current commit CB Peyton Dyer, OL Darius Gray, and S Tamarion Watkins. Along with South Carolina, Curtis has official visits lined up with Georgia, Oregon, Auburn, and Alabama.

    While the Gamecocks are also actively recruiting other top 2026 quarterbacks like Landon Duckworth and Brady Smigiel, it’s clear that Curtis remains their number one target. Securing him would be a major boost to South Carolina’s 2026 class.

    Curtis is ranked as the 24/7 Composite’s number two player in the upcoming class and is a consensus top-ten recruit across all major recruiting platforms.

    More news…..

    Ryan Mosley, 2026 WR, Schedules Official Visit with South Carolina Gamecocks

    Ryan Mosley

    Ryan Mosley, a 2026 wide receiver, has confirmed an official visit with the South Carolina Gamecocks.

    With National Signing Day for the 2025 recruiting class approaching on February 5, attention from college football programs is shifting toward the 2026 cycle. South Carolina has made a strong push with their 2025 class, and they aim to continue that success this year. One of the top prospects for the upcoming class, Ryan Mosley, has already scheduled an official visit with the Gamecocks.

    Mosley, a four-star wide receiver from the 2026 class, will visit Columbia from June 6th to 8th. Before that, he plans to visit Georgia and will travel to Texas A&M after his trip to South Carolina. Mosley is ranked as the 236th-best player in the country, the 39th-best wide receiver, and the 28th-best player in Georgia.

    Texas A&M was the first SEC school to extend an offer to Mosley, followed quickly by Georgia, giving those programs a head start in his recruitment. However, South Carolina has made a strong push since joining the race, meaning these upcoming official visits will be crucial to Mosley’s decision.

    South Carolina Gamecocks 2026 Recruiting Class:

    • J’Zavien Currence, CB
    • Peyton Dyer, CB
    • Keenan Britt, Edge
    • Jamal Howse, TE
    • Anthony Baxter, OL

  • VIP Room: Offensive Line Targets and Gamecocks Ready for Season Opener

    The latest in South Carolina athletics:

    As South Carolina football coaches shift gears from the busy recruiting season to preparing for spring practice, there’s still plenty of recruiting activity taking place. This includes key events like the Under Armour camp in Georgia over the weekend, where standout high school players gathered to showcase their skills.

    Over on the baseball front, the Gamecocks are gearing up for the start of their season this weekend under new head coach Paul Mainieri. Despite the SEC coaches predicting the team to finish 14th out of 16 teams, there’s a real buzz building within the program. Meanwhile, the softball team has just kicked off its season, and things couldn’t be looking brighter for first-year head coach Ashley Chastain Woodard.

    Here at TheBigSpur.com, we’re bringing you exclusive behind-the-scenes access to all things South Carolina athletics. With the sports season in full swing, we’re reviving one of our fan-favorite features, the VIP Room, to keep you in the know on all the latest developments. Stay tuned.

    More news…..

    Ryan Mosley, 2026 WR, Schedules Official Visit with South Carolina Gamecocks

    Ryan Mosley

    Ryan Mosley, a 2026 wide receiver, has confirmed an official visit with the South Carolina Gamecocks.

    With National Signing Day for the 2025 recruiting class approaching on February 5, attention from college football programs is shifting toward the 2026 cycle. South Carolina has made a strong push with their 2025 class, and they aim to continue that success this year. One of the top prospects for the upcoming class, Ryan Mosley, has already scheduled an official visit with the Gamecocks.

    Mosley, a four-star wide receiver from the 2026 class, will visit Columbia from June 6th to 8th. Before that, he plans to visit Georgia and will travel to Texas A&M after his trip to South Carolina. Mosley is ranked as the 236th-best player in the country, the 39th-best wide receiver, and the 28th-best player in Georgia.

    Texas A&M was the first SEC school to extend an offer to Mosley, followed quickly by Georgia, giving those programs a head start in his recruitment. However, South Carolina has made a strong push since joining the race, meaning these upcoming official visits will be crucial to Mosley’s decision.

    South Carolina Gamecocks 2026 Recruiting Class:

    • J’Zavien Currence, CB
    • Peyton Dyer, CB
    • Keenan Britt, Edge
    • Jamal Howse, TE
    • Anthony Baxter, OL

  • Is Donovan Murph Prepared to Contribute Right Away for South Carolina?

    The recruitment of Donovan Murph was one that involved some of the biggest names in college football. Murph had the attention of nearly every major program, but it was the University of South Carolina that ultimately earned his commitment. The Gamecocks, led by head coach Shane Beamer, had already been making waves on the recruiting trail, and landing a prospect like Murph was a massive coup for their program.

    Murph’s commitment to South Carolina was the result of a strong relationship he developed with the coaching staff, as well as his admiration for the Gamecocks’ vision for their offensive future. South Carolina has been working hard to build a potent, dynamic offense, and Murph’s skillset fits perfectly into their plans. The Gamecocks have been searching for a playmaker to bolster their receiving corps, and Murph’s versatility gives them a weapon that can be used in a variety of ways, whether it’s stretching the field with deep routes or creating mismatches in the short-to-intermediate passing game.

    Will He Play Immediately?

    One of the most common questions surrounding Murph’s arrival at South Carolina is whether he will be ready to play immediately. Historically, it’s rare for true freshmen, even those with a high school pedigree as impressive as Murph’s, to make an immediate impact in the SEC, one of the most competitive conferences in college football. However, Murph’s talent and his readiness for the next level have left many experts predicting that he could break that mold.

    First and foremost, Murph enters a South Carolina wide receiver room that could use an infusion of talent. While the Gamecocks have some solid receivers returning, there is a noticeable void in terms of elite playmakers on the outside. South Carolina has been searching for a consistent deep threat and a player who can create explosive plays—attributes that Murph possesses in abundance. His size and ability to stretch the field make him a difficult matchup for cornerbacks, and his elite ball-tracking skills make him a deep threat from day one.

    Furthermore, Murph has the skills necessary to contribute immediately, especially in the system South Carolina runs. The Gamecocks, under offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains, have implemented a pass-heavy attack, one that could allow Murph to quickly get involved in the game plan. His skill set makes him an ideal fit for their offense, and the need for playmakers at the receiver position could open the door for him to see significant playing time right out of the gate.

    South Carolina’s coaching staff is known for putting their best players on the field, regardless of class, and it’s clear that Murph’s abilities will be hard to overlook. The Gamecocks have a favorable schedule early in the season, which could offer him the chance to get acclimated to the college game and showcase his talents. He will likely start out competing for snaps in the rotation, but if he performs well in camp and practices, it’s entirely possible he could earn a starting role.

    What Can We Expect from Donovan Murph?

    Donovan Murph’s strengths as a wide receiver are already well known. His impressive combination of size, speed, and ball skills makes him a dangerous weapon in both the short and long passing game. At St. Augustine High School, he excelled as a vertical threat, frequently burning defenders with his deep routes. However, his skill set isn’t just limited to the deep game. Murph also possesses excellent route-running ability, solid hands, and strong after-the-catch vision, all of which make him a versatile threat who can be deployed in a variety of ways.

    Murph’s agility and ability to make defenders miss after the catch set him apart from many of his peers. He’s known for his smooth, quick cuts and his ability to get open in tight spaces. His skillset fits perfectly with what South Carolina is trying to build offensively, and it’s easy to envision him having an immediate impact as a playmaker, whether it’s on deep routes, intermediate throws, or even jet sweeps.

    As a freshman, Murph will need to adjust to the speed and physicality of the SEC. While he’s proven he can dominate in high school, the college game presents a whole new level of competition. However, given his natural athleticism and work ethic, many believe he will adjust quickly and emerge as one of South Carolina’s top playmakers early in his career.

     

  • Major Head Coach Exposes Troubling Truth About Fake Injuries in College Football

    South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer once again expressed his growing

    South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer once again expressed his growing frustration over the rising issue of fake injuries in college football.

    The Gamecocks had a strong season, finishing 9-4 — their best since 2017 — in Beamer’s fourth year as head coach. However, their 27-3 loss to Ole Miss, which ended any hopes of making the College Football Playoff, sparked accusations that fake injuries were being used to disrupt the game.

    Speaking out about the detrimental impact of fake injuries, Beamer reflected on his earlier comments after that game and shared a concerning observation. “It absolutely does (impact the game),” he told Pete Nakos of On3. “A team that we played this season — it’s amazing how many times they had an injury on defense after the opposing offense made a first down on an explosive play and had some momentum. There’s certainly something to that, and you have to be able to overcome it as a team.”

    These comments come in the wake of Lane Kiffin and Ole Miss having to address similar accusations following their win over the Gamecocks on Oct. 5. Later, SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey issued a memo to schools warning about the possible penalties for faking injuries.

    Beamer continued, emphasizing the negative impact of the practice. “We’re not perfect, don’t get me wrong,” he said. “But certainly, that is what some people are using it for. One, to slow momentum, or two to catch their breath. If a team is going fast and they need a minute to catch their breath. It’s not what the sport intended for.”

    The issue has garnered enough attention that the NCAA Football Rules Committee is set to meet in late February in Indianapolis to discuss potential changes. One proposed solution, from the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), which includes Beamer, suggests that any player who receives medical attention for an injury should be required to sit out for the remainder of the possession. The proposal would exclude players who are injured by a hit or those with helmet communication systems. Teams could still keep a player in the game by using a timeout.

    Currently, the rule mandates that injured players miss only one play.

    Beamer continued to condemn the practice, describing some situations as “absolutely embarrassing” for the sport. “There’s no question that it’s a bad look for everyone involved,” Beamer stated. “Look, there were some absolutely embarrassing, blatant faking of injuries that we saw this season. And it’s not what’s best for the game. There’s no question about it. The teams don’t want to see it. The fans don’t want to see it.”

  • South Carolina QB prospect Landon Duckworth discusses the latest updates on his recruitment.

    Landon Duckworth, the former South Carolina QB commit, provides an update on his recruitment and his current situation with the Gamecocks.

    Live from Atlanta, I’m catching up with Jackson, Alabama quarterback Landon Duckworth, who once made a commitment to the South Carolina Gamecocks but de-committed in June of last year. Since then, South Carolina’s football landscape has undergone significant changes, from head coach Shane Beamer’s contract extension to QB LaNorris Sellers showing off his skills. Now, Duckworth is in the final stretch of his recruitment journey.

    We met with Duckworth during the Under Armour Next series to get the latest on his status with the Gamecocks.

    Duckworth on the changes since his de-commitment: “You know, Coach Loggains is gone, but Coach Beamer is still around, so it’s all good. We have a really strong relationship, and I’ve also built a connection with Coach Shula. He came down to my school a few times, and we even had dinner with my mom in Mobile.”

    On his expectations from the offense under Mike Shula: “I think it really depends. Coach Shula coached Cam Newton for a long time, and his dad was also a very accomplished coach. So, they’re definitely counting on him.”

    On the message he’s been receiving from South Carolina’s staff: “We talk a lot—me, Coach Shula, and Coach Beamer. But I also keep in touch with the whole staff. Even the new hires have been clear: they want me, and they tell me that all the time.”

    On which other programs are prioritizing him: “Florida State, Missouri, North Carolina, and Georgia are all making a strong push. I really like Missouri.”

    As Duckworth approaches the end of his recruitment, South Carolina is still very much in the conversation, but the competition is heating up. Stay tuned for more updates as this recruitment unfolds!

    More news….

    First-Round Projections Have South Carolina DT T.J. Sanders As a Top NFL Draft Pick

    T.J. Sanders

    The 2025 NFL Draft process is in full swing, and former South Carolina defensive tackle T.J. Sanders is now considered a potential first-round pick.

    Although Sanders might have flown under the radar this season due to the dominant performances of South Carolina’s EDGE rushers, Dylan Stewart and Kyle Kennard, he is gaining recognition as the draft approaches. National analysts, including NFL Network’s lead draft expert, Daniel Jeremiah, are starting to take notice of Sanders’ impressive tape.

    Jeremiah recently released his updated NFL Mock Draft, where he has Sanders going 31st overall to the Philadelphia Eagles. Regarding the potential selection, Jeremiah commented:

    “There has not been a lot of buzz for Sanders, but I thought his tape was outstanding. He’s really twitchy and would fit right in with the bevy of talented defensive linemen in Philly.”

    T.J. Sanders’ accolades include:

    • 2024 Third-Team All-America (College Football Nation)
    • 2024 First-Team All-SEC (College Football Nation)
    • 2024 Second-Team All-SEC (AP, Phil Steele)
    • 2024 SEC Interior Defender of the Year (College Football Nation)
    • 2023 Third-Team All-SEC (College Football Network)
    • 2023 Fourth-Team All-SEC (Phil Steele)
    • 2023 Nutrition Award
    • 2023 Rex Enright Defensive Player of the Spring
    • 2023 co-South Carolina Spirit Award – Defense

  • The 2025 South Carolina football schedule is loaded once again. Which games are the most compelling? We rank them here.

    The 2025 South Carolina football schedule is loaded once again. Which games are the most compelling? We rank them here.

    South Carolina’s 2025 Football Schedule: Ranking the Most Intriguing Matchups

    The South Carolina Gamecocks are riding high after a stellar 2024 campaign, fueled by an elite defensive front and the rise of a dynamic quarterback. With expectations reaching new heights in Columbia, the big question remains: Can they maintain the momentum? Here’s a look at the 2025 South Carolina football schedule, ranked by a variety of factors including rivalry intensity, opponent excitement, and overall season impact.

    Let’s break down each game and see which ones have the most to offer this fall.

    12) vs. SC State Bulldogs (Saturday, Sept. 6)
    While SEC teams often face criticism for scheduling FCS teams, South Carolina fans are unlikely to complain. With a brutal SEC schedule, they’re likely to be forgiven for facing an in-state rival. This isn’t the powerhouse SC State Bulldogs of years past, but under Chennis Berry, the Bulldogs did capture the MEAC Championship in 2024. Still, this is a game the Gamecocks should dominate.

    11) vs. Coastal Carolina (Saturday, Nov. 22)
    When this matchup was first announced, it had Gamecocks fans worried, especially with Jamey Chadwell at the helm of Coastal Carolina. However, after Chadwell’s departure, the intrigue surrounding this game has significantly decreased. It now seems like a warm-up ahead of a critical Palmetto Bowl showdown in Rivalry Week.

    10) vs. Vanderbilt Commodores (Saturday, Sept. 13)
    Despite Diego Pavia adding some excitement to the Vanderbilt matchup, it remains a lower-tier game on the schedule. The Gamecocks have dominated this series, winning 16 straight against the Commodores, and this game should be another routine victory in a typically lopsided SEC affair.

    9) vs. Kentucky Wildcats (Saturday, Sept. 27)
    The rivalry between South Carolina and Kentucky had some renewed energy recently, especially with both teams fighting for relevance in the SEC East. However, with the Wildcats struggling in 2024 and facing a large roster turnover, this game has lost some of its former luster. South Carolina’s dominant win last year only adds to the feeling that they’ll handle business once again.

    8) vs. Oklahoma Sooners (Saturday, Oct. 18)
    The Oklahoma Sooners are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2024 season. South Carolina’s dominant defense last year set the tone, with nine sacks and four turnovers against the Sooner offense. Shane Beamer’s squad should be favored, but Oklahoma is hungry for revenge, and John Mateer under center promises an intriguing matchup.

    7) at Missouri Tigers (Saturday, Sept. 20)
    After a dramatic victory over Eli Drinkwitz’s Missouri Tigers last year, Shane Beamer now faces them on the road for the next installment of the Mayor’s Cup. This young rivalry has already delivered plenty of thrills, and both teams are expected to have high expectations in 2025. Despite the game’s potential, it’s still somewhat overshadowed by stronger matchups on the schedule.

    6) at Texas A&M Aggies (Saturday, Nov. 15)
    In recent years, South Carolina has had Texas A&M’s number, winning two of the last three matchups, including a 44-20 blowout in 2024. With Mike Elko’s Aggies improving and South Carolina yet to win at Kyle Field, this game could be pivotal in the hunt for the College Football Playoff.

    5) vs. Virginia Tech Hokies (Sunday, Aug. 31)
    The Virginia Tech Hokies have had a rough offseason, losing key players and undergoing coaching turmoil. For South Carolina, this game is an excellent opportunity to make a statement on a national stage. However, Beamer’s teams have struggled in season openers, and this contest could be a make-or-break moment to set the tone for the rest of the year.

    4) vs. Alabama Crimson Tide (Saturday, Oct. 25)
    In 2024, South Carolina nearly pulled off an upset in Tuscaloosa, losing in dramatic fashion. With Kalen DeBoer’s squad expected to be better in Year 2, this late October matchup could be the perfect opportunity for the Gamecocks to finally topple the Crimson Tide at home. Shane Beamer and company will surely be fired up for this one.

    3) at Ole Miss Rebels (Saturday, Nov. 1)
    There’s a bit of bad blood between Shane Beamer and Lane Kiffin, and it stems from much more than just football. The two coaches have had their share of battles in the transfer portal, with the Rebels even flipping one of South Carolina’s top recruits this offseason. This will be a fiery contest, and after last year’s lopsided loss, Beamer is eager to exact revenge.

    2) at LSU Tigers (Saturday, Oct. 11)
    Last year’s matchup between South Carolina and LSU was marred by one of the most egregious officiating errors, costing the Gamecocks a potential College Football Playoff berth. As they head to Baton Rouge in Week 7, South Carolina will be out for redemption. The timing of the game off a bye week could set the stage for a primetime spectacle.

    1) vs. Clemson Tigers (Saturday, Nov. 29)
    The Palmetto Bowl always takes center stage, no matter the records of either team. This rivalry has had it all – from fights to campus invasions to wild controversies. After Shane Beamer led the Gamecocks to two wins over the Tigers, both on the road, will he secure his first home victory over Clemson in 2025? With both teams loaded with talent and potential College Football Playoff implications on the line, this is the game everyone will be watching.

    So, there you have it: a packed 2025 South Carolina football schedule that promises drama, excitement, and a potential Playoff push. Stay tuned to see how the Gamecocks perform in what could be a historic season.

  • Iconic Gamecocks player becomes the first to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame

    Sterling Sharpe

    Breaking news from New Orleans, where Sterling Sharpe, the legendary Gamecocks receiver, made history as the first player from the University of South Carolina to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This major achievement was announced on Thursday, February 6, during the NFL Honors event.

    NFL career

    Sharpe, who played for the Green Bay Packers from 1988 to 1994, saw his career unfortunately cut short by a neck injury. Despite this setback, the wide receiver finished his NFL career with impressive stats, recording 595 receptions, 8,134 receiving yards, and 65 touchdowns.

    USC career

    At South Carolina, Sharpe was a standout, becoming the school’s all-time leader in receptions with 169 catches, 2,497 yards, and 17 touchdowns. His breakout season came in 1986, when he totaled 74 receptions, 1,106 yards, and 10 touchdowns.

    In an even more remarkable twist, Sharpe now shares the honor with his brother, Shannon Sharpe, a 3-time Super Bowl champion, as the first siblings ever enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This is a proud moment for the Sharpe family and a historic achievement for both brothers.

    More news…..

    First-Round Projections Have South Carolina DT T.J. Sanders As a Top NFL Draft Pick

    T.J. Sanders

    The 2025 NFL Draft process is in full swing, and former South Carolina defensive tackle T.J. Sanders is now considered a potential first-round pick.

    Although Sanders might have flown under the radar this season due to the dominant performances of South Carolina’s EDGE rushers, Dylan Stewart and Kyle Kennard, he is gaining recognition as the draft approaches. National analysts, including NFL Network’s lead draft expert, Daniel Jeremiah, are starting to take notice of Sanders’ impressive tape.

    Jeremiah recently released his updated NFL Mock Draft, where he has Sanders going 31st overall to the Philadelphia Eagles. Regarding the potential selection, Jeremiah commented:

    “There has not been a lot of buzz for Sanders, but I thought his tape was outstanding. He’s really twitchy and would fit right in with the bevy of talented defensive linemen in Philly.”

    T.J. Sanders’ accolades include:

    • 2024 Third-Team All-America (College Football Nation)
    • 2024 First-Team All-SEC (College Football Nation)
    • 2024 Second-Team All-SEC (AP, Phil Steele)
    • 2024 SEC Interior Defender of the Year (College Football Nation)
    • 2023 Third-Team All-SEC (College Football Network)
    • 2023 Fourth-Team All-SEC (Phil Steele)
    • 2023 Nutrition Award
    • 2023 Rex Enright Defensive Player of the Spring
    • 2023 co-South Carolina Spirit Award – Defense

  • Where Did South Carolina Gamecocks Stand in the Latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft?

    Where Did South Carolina Gamecocks Stand in the Latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft?

    2025 NFL Draft Predictions for South Carolina Gamecocks

    Good evening, fans and analysts! College Sports Network just dropped its 3-round 2025 NFL Mock Draft, and it looks like a lot of South Carolina Gamecocks are getting their names called early! Let’s dive right into how the Gamecocks are positioned in this mock and what it means for their future in the NFL.

    South Carolina Gamecocks NFL Draft Breakdown: 4 Gamecocks in CSN’s Latest Mock Draft

    There’s a growing buzz around Columbia that the 2025 NFL Draft could be a historic one for South Carolina. Several Gamecocks are expected to hear their names called, with a few even going earlier than anticipated. Players like Nick Emmanwori, T.J. Sanders, and Kyle Kennard have all earned first-round buzz. Expect that hype to build even further after the 2025 NFL Combine.

    Now, let’s break down where our Gamecocks are expected to land, and how they might fit with the teams drafting them.

    Top 4 Gamecocks in the Latest Mock Draft:

    30) Nick Emmanwori, SAF, Buffalo Bills
    Nick Emmanwori is an intriguing fit for the Buffalo Bills, a team in need of a safety. The pairing has been popular among both fans and experts alike. Standing at 6’3″ and 225 pounds, Emmanwori is a freakish athlete who could run in the 4.3s at the NFL Combine—a rarity for safety prospects. This athleticism gives him incredible potential, but his stock might rise significantly after the Combine, making it unclear whether he’ll still be available at pick 30.

    His versatility is key—he’s always been a hard-hitting safety against the run, but Emmanwori showcased elite ball skills in 2024, grabbing four interceptions and returning two for touchdowns. His range and toughness would be ideal in a Sean McDermott-led defense, but the question remains: will the Bills still have the opportunity to grab him?

    43) T.J. Sanders, IDL, San Francisco 49ers
    Next up is T.J. Sanders, who seems locked in as the second Gamecock off the board. The explosive interior pass rusher lands with the San Francisco 49ers, a team with a history of drafting South Carolina talent. Despite being undersized, Sanders makes up for it with his raw power and speed.

    Notably, Sanders hasn’t played more than 480 snaps in a season, not due to injury, but because of South Carolina’s deep rotation along the defensive line. He could be a player who performs better at the next level. His special teams experience and ability to play multiple positions along the defensive line make him a great fit in San Francisco.

    46) Demetrius Knight, LB, Atlanta Falcons
    Here’s where things get interesting. Demetrius Knight is an older prospect but a fantastic leader, and he’s one to keep an eye on during the Combine. A sixth-year senior, Knight has excellent speed at linebacker and demonstrated great coverage skills at South Carolina. After a breakout 2024 season, his explosive abilities will undoubtedly impress scouts, and he could go much higher than expected.

    The Atlanta Falcons are looking for more speed on defense, and Knight brings that in spades. His size and athleticism make him a valuable addition to their linebacker corps, and his leadership qualities will be crucial for any team that drafts him.

    55) Kyle Kennard, Edge, Green Bay Packers
    Finally, Kyle Kennard lands with the Green Bay Packers at pick 55. While no one predicted Kennard to win the Bednarik Award, he was one of the Gamecocks’ top players this season. A breakout senior year, especially in 2023, saw him become a more refined pass rusher. Standing tall and lean, Kennard has great bend and an arsenal of pass-rushing moves.

    In his standout game against LSU, Kennard made life miserable for projected first-round tackle Will Campbell, despite a couple of penalties that erased potential pick-sixes. The Packers, in need of another edge rusher opposite Rashan Gary, would benefit greatly from Kennard’s proven pass-rushing ability.

    That’s a quick rundown of the Gamecocks in CSN’s latest 2025 mock draft. It’s shaping up to be an exciting draft for South Carolina, with several players potentially being selected earlier than expected. Stay tuned for more updates as the draft approaches!

  • Bear McWhorter Reveals Top Five Schools and Sets Commitment Date, South Carolina Included

    First-Round Projections Have South Carolina DT T.J. Sanders As a Top NFL Draft Pick

    Live Report: Bear McWhorter Includes South Carolina Gamecocks in Final Five for 2026 Recruiting Class

    In the latest developments for the 2026 recruiting cycle, offensive lineman Bear McWhorter has just revealed his final five schools, and the South Carolina Gamecocks have made the cut.

    As the 2025 recruiting class officially wraps up, all eyes are now on 2026, and the Gamecocks are aiming to continue their success from the previous cycle. After securing a solid group of recruits last year, South Carolina is already in the hunt for top-tier talent, and McWhorter, one of their key targets, has added them to his shortlist.

    Alongside South Carolina, Florida, Michigan, Clemson, and Alabama are in the running for McWhorter’s commitment. A three-star recruit, McWhorter is ranked as the 437th-best player in the 2026 class, the 38th-best interior offensive lineman, and the 46th-best player in Georgia, according to composite rankings. South Carolina extended an offer to the Georgia native back in March of 2024.

    McWhorter has also confirmed that he will announce his commitment on February 28th of this month, so the Gamecocks, along with his other contenders, will be eagerly awaiting his decision.

    Currently, South Carolina’s 2026 class already includes five committed players, including Anthony Baxter as an interior offensive lineman.

    Here’s a look at South Carolina’s 2026 recruiting class so far:

    • J’Zavien Currence, Safety
    • Jamel Howse, Tight End
    • Keenan Britt, Edge
    • Peyton Dyer, Cornerback
    • Anthony Baxter, Offensive Lineman

    Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story!

    More news…..

    First-Round Projections Have South Carolina DT T.J. Sanders As a Top NFL Draft Pick

    T.J. Sanders

    The 2025 NFL Draft process is in full swing, and former South Carolina defensive tackle T.J. Sanders is now considered a potential first-round pick.

    Although Sanders might have flown under the radar this season due to the dominant performances of South Carolina’s EDGE rushers, Dylan Stewart and Kyle Kennard, he is gaining recognition as the draft approaches. National analysts, including NFL Network’s lead draft expert, Daniel Jeremiah, are starting to take notice of Sanders’ impressive tape.

    Jeremiah recently released his updated NFL Mock Draft, where he has Sanders going 31st overall to the Philadelphia Eagles. Regarding the potential selection, Jeremiah commented:

    “There has not been a lot of buzz for Sanders, but I thought his tape was outstanding. He’s really twitchy and would fit right in with the bevy of talented defensive linemen in Philly.”

    T.J. Sanders’ accolades include:

    • 2024 Third-Team All-America (College Football Nation)
    • 2024 First-Team All-SEC (College Football Nation)
    • 2024 Second-Team All-SEC (AP, Phil Steele)
    • 2024 SEC Interior Defender of the Year (College Football Nation)
    • 2023 Third-Team All-SEC (College Football Network)
    • 2023 Fourth-Team All-SEC (Phil Steele)
    • 2023 Nutrition Award
    • 2023 Rex Enright Defensive Player of the Spring
    • 2023 co-South Carolina Spirit Award – Defense