South Carolina Tight End Josh Simon Delivers Impressive NFL Combine Performance

South Carolina Football’s Nick Emmanwori Shines at NFL Combine, While Tight End Josh Simon Also Impresses

South Carolina football safety Nick Emmanwori stole the spotlight at the NFL Combine on Friday, posting a 4.38 in the 40-yard dash (second-best among safeties), an 11-6 broad jump (best overall), and a 43-inch vertical (best overall), boosting his already impressive NFL Draft stock.

But Emmanwori wasn’t the only Gamecock to stand out on Friday. Tight end Josh Simon also had a standout performance.

The Dalzell, South Carolina native posted some of the top athletic testing numbers among all tight ends. At 6-4, 239 pounds, Simon ran the second-fastest 40-yard dash among tight ends at 4.65 seconds, had a 38-inch vertical jump (second-best), and his 10-4 broad jump also ranked second. Additionally, Simon recorded solid marks in the 20-yard shuttle (4.4) and three-cone drill (7.22).

Earlier in the day, Simon spoke highly of his time at South Carolina, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to move from Western Kentucky. He shared how the transition helped him grow as a player, particularly under the coaching of offensive coordinator Coach Loggains, where he got to experience a pro-style offense and improve his skills in route-running and the run game.

Simon’s strong day, both on the field and in interviews, could significantly enhance his chances of being selected in the 2025 NFL Draft. Heading into the combine, he was ranked No. 17 among tight ends on NFL.com, and his performance may help improve his draft stock. If drafted, Simon would become the sixth Gamecock tight end selected in the last 13 years.

More news…..

Kyle Kennard Discusses How South Carolina Prepared Him for the NFL

The highly anticipated NFL Scouting Combine has officially kicked off, marking the biggest pre-draft event of the offseason. Before taking part in individual drills on the field, players have the opportunity to speak with the media, as was the case with former South Carolina Gamecock Kyle Kennard.

Kennard, who transferred from Georgia Tech to South Carolina as part of the 2024 transfer class, had a standout year in the garnet and black. While his on-field performance has certainly contributed to his rise as a top prospect, Kennard shared with the media just how much the Gamecocks program has helped him off the field.

“They kind of helped me with the seriousness of it,” Kennard explained. “They helped me get my mind orchestrated. They helped me with communications with the media and other things that you need to be ready for at this stage.”

As players like Kennard prepare for the upcoming draft in April, they will go through a series of team and media interviews. The development of their communication skills and professional media training plays a significant role in boosting their draft prospects.

The reigning Nagurski Trophy winner is expected to be picked within the first two rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft.