Where Have All the Gamecocks Ended Up?

In a week filled with significant NFL free agency moves, former South Carolina Gamecocks players have been making headlines with new contracts and changes to their teams. With the 2025 season on the horizon, teams have been busy bolstering their rosters, and Gamecock fans are keeping a close eye on where their former stars land. Let’s dive into the latest updates on ex-Gamecocks in the NFL.

NFL free agency is always a thrilling time for fans across the country, with excitement (and sometimes disappointment) over which transactions their teams did or didn’t make. For college football fans, it’s a chance to track the futures of their favorite former players. Fans of the Gamecocks are no different.

This week, four former Gamecocks signed new deals to continue their NFL careers, while two are still searching for their next opportunities. Here’s the breakdown of where they ended up:

Leading the charge is Javon Kinlaw, who has had a standout offseason. After starting 17 games last season for the New York Giants, the former Gamecocks defensive lineman has now landed with the Washington Commanders. Kinlaw signed a three-year, $45 million contract, which includes a hefty $30 million in guaranteed money.

Ernest Jones IV, the dynamic linebacker, has had a whirlwind year. After being traded from Los Angeles to Tennessee, he was once again moved midseason, this time to Seattle. Jones has seemingly found his new home with the Seahawks, as he inked a three-year extension worth $33 million.

Deebo Samuel Sr., a versatile weapon for the San Francisco 49ers during their recent championship runs, was allowed to seek a trade after the team faced salary cap constraints. The Washington Commanders are the lucky recipients of Samuel’s talents, hoping his ability to be used in multiple roles will help energize their offense.

Meanwhile, Rico Dowdle, who gave stability to the Dallas Cowboys running back group, has been rewarded for his excellent performance last season, which included rushing for 1,079 yards. Dowdle has signed a one-year contract with the Carolina Panthers.

Israel Mukuamu, known for his versatility as a defensive back and special teams standout, will return to the Dallas Cowboys on a one-year deal. Mukuamu had a career-high 19 tackles and 2 interceptions last season, showing his value on the field.

One of the big winners this offseason is Jaycee Horn, the Carolina Panthers’ standout defensive back. Horn has secured a five-year, $100 million extension, which includes $70 million in guarantees, making him the highest-paid defensive back entering the 2025 season. Horn has shown when healthy that he’s one of the top cornerbacks in the league.

However, not all former Gamecocks have found new homes yet. Stephon Gilmore, once one of the league’s top defenders, is now in the twilight of his career but remains unsigned as he awaits the right opportunity. Similarly, Hayden Hurst, the tight end, is still searching for a new deal.

As NFL free agency continues, Gamecock fans will be keeping an eye on the futures of these players, hoping to see more of their former stars shine in the upcoming season.

Stay tuned for more updates and follow the latest coverage on Gamecock players as they make their mark in the NFL.