Top 5 Essential 2026 Recruits for the South Carolina Gamecocks

South Carolina Gamecocks’ Top Recruiting Targets for 2026

As the South Carolina Gamecocks approach the 2025 college football season, the excitement surrounding their recruiting efforts continues to grow. Under head coach Shane Beamer, the Gamecocks have become a consistent force in landing top-tier talent, including high-profile prospects like Nyck Harbor and Dylan Stewart. Now, with the class of 2026 on the horizon, the program has a prime opportunity to further bolster its roster with blue-chip recruits.

Here are the Top-5 Must-Have Prospects for the South Carolina Gamecocks in 2026:

1. Zion Elee, EDGE
   The Gamecocks’ top priority at EDGE rusher is Zion Elee, ranked as the No. 1 EDGE rusher in the 2026 class. Although there is stiff competition from in-state rivals, such as the Maryland Terrapins, the Gamecocks’ recent success with Dylan Stewart could work in their favor. Elee, a standout player with 64 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and 13 sacks during his sophomore season, is a dynamic, game-changing talent. His combination of size, speed, and athleticism positions him as one of the most dominant defenders in high school football.
2. Aiden Harris, DL
   Ranked among the country’s top 50 prospects, Aiden Harris is an essential target for the Gamecocks. While South Carolina has a strong EDGE group, including the returning Dylan Stewart, there is a clear need for reinforcements in the interior defensive line. Harris, a key defensive force, is a top priority for the Gamecocks, though they’ll face stiff competition from other powerhouse programs as they vie for his commitment.
3. Ryan Mosely, WR
   At wide receiver, the Gamecocks’ primary target in 2026 is Ryan Mosely, a 6’3″, 200-pound playmaker from Carrolton, Georgia. Recently, head coach Shane Beamer personally visited Mosely, signaling South Carolina’s serious interest in the 4-star prospect. Mosely has proven to be a versatile athlete, even playing safety for his high school team. His physicality and polished skill set, honed in one of Georgia’s top football programs, make him a crucial recruit for the Gamecocks.
4. Rodney Durnham, EDGE
   Rodney Durnham, another highly sought-after EDGE rusher, is expected to be part of a fiercely competitive recruiting battle. The Charlotte, North Carolina prospect has drawn interest from top schools like Tennessee and Alabama. However, it’s the Volunteers who are likely to pose the biggest challenge for the Gamecocks in securing Durnham’s commitment. Still, South Carolina remains in the race for this potential five-star prospect.
5. Samari Matthews, CB
   Samari Matthews, a 6’0″, 185-pound cornerback from Hough High School in North Carolina, is a prospect the Gamecocks feel optimistic about. Matthews, who has already scheduled official visits to Florida State and South Carolina, is making Columbia his final stop this summer. His visit to the Gamecocks could prove pivotal in securing his commitment.

As we head into the 2025 season, these five prospects represent some of the biggest priorities for Shane Beamer and his staff as they look to continue building a powerhouse roster for the future of Gamecocks football. Stay tuned as this recruiting race heats up!