News Summary
The South Carolina Gamecocks football recruiting is seeing a surge in interest from top prospects. Key events like the Garnet and Black spring game have engaged assistant coaches and potential recruits, focusing on defensive ends and running backs for upcoming classes. The coaching staff is prioritizing in-state talent and gearing up for official visits beginning May 30. This strategic approach signals a commitment to building a stronger roster for the future. Noteworthy athletes have visited, showcasing the Gamecocks’ efforts to attract high-caliber recruits to the program.
Columbia, South Carolina — South Carolina Gamecocks football recruiting has gained momentum over the past month, highlighted by key visits and interest from high-caliber prospects. The focus has been on the Garnet and Black spring game and the spring evaluation period, laying the groundwork for future recruiting classes.
While head coach Shane Beamer cannot conduct off-campus recruiting trips, his ten assistant coaches are actively engaging with potential recruits. This strategic approach is critical as the Gamecocks look to bolster their roster with top talent. Events covered by sources include spring practices, showcase camps, and state track meets tailored to enhancing recruitment efforts.
Among the notable recruiting activities, defensive ends were a high priority during the spring game led by defensive line coach Sterling Lucas. Several blue-chip prospects attended the game, drawing attention from coaching staff who aim to strengthen the defense with exceptional players.
The spring recruiting scene has also ramped up for running backs in the 2027 class, with prospects such as Caden Waye from McDonough, Georgia, Braydon Tyson from Snellville, Georgia, Aiden Gibson from Woodruff, South Carolina, and David Segarra from Duncan, South Carolina, making visits. Gibson caught the staff’s attention by receiving an official offer and visiting multiple times, indicating a strong interest in joining the Gamecocks.
Quarterback recruitment is targeting cycles from 2026 to 2028. A range of promising athletes have been evaluated, including Landon Duckworth from Jackson, Alabama, who recently visited and provided valuable feedback. Other quarterbacks of interest include Brady Smigiel from Newbury Park, California, who has committed to Michigan, and Trent Seaborn from Alabaster, Alabama, who also visited and was interviewed. Additionally, Jayce Johnson from Valdosta, Georgia, visited during the spring game and received an offer, while the Gamecocks have extended their first offer to a quarterback in the 2028 class.
In the defensive backfield, three-star safety Tamarion Watkins from Rock Hill, South Carolina, engaged in discussions following his participation at the York County Football Showcase. Gamecocks commitment J’Zavien Currence also took the opportunity to reflect on the performances of his teammates, further enriching the recruitment dialogue.
Additional potential recruits include 2027 cornerback Joshua Dobson from Fort Mill, South Carolina, defensive lineman Seth Tillman from Rock Hill, South Carolina, and wide receiver Sequel Patterson from Fort Mill, South Carolina. There’s also Tilden Riley, a tight end prospect from Orangeburg Preparatory School, who has received an offer from the Gamecocks and is set for several official visits. Riley has also made a mark in baseball and basketball, reaching a significant career milestone in points scored.
The first weekend for official visits is scheduled to commence on May 30, which is expected to play a vital role in the Gamecocks’ recruiting endeavors. The coaching staff is prioritizing in-state talent for the 2026 and 2027 classes, with promising prospects emerging, signaling a positive shift in the recruiting landscape for the South Carolina football program. The increased interest from high-caliber recruits denotes a commitment to building a competitive team in the coming years.
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Additional Resources
- 247Sports: Blue-Chip Options for 2026 and 2027 Classes
- On3: Kamari Blair Recruitment
- 247Sports: South Carolina Football Recruiting Update
- Google Search: South Carolina Gamecocks Football Recruiting
- 247Sports: Tilden Riley Recruitment
- Wikipedia: South Carolina Gamecocks Football
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
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