The college football transfer portal is set to open on January 2, and South Carolina is already bracing for significant roster turnover. Ahead of the opening window, 16 Gamecocks have announced plans to enter the portal, signaling a major offseason reset for head coach Shane Beamer and his staff.
Earlier this fall, the NCAA voted to eliminate the spring transfer portal window, leaving January as the lone opportunity for player movement. The portal will officially open on Friday, January 2, and close on January 16. While players are not required to commit to a new school during that span, many are expected to make quick decisions.
Despite the window still days away, South Carolina has already seen a wave of departures across nearly every position group. The early list includes six offensive linemen, four defenders from the front seven, two wide receivers, a quarterback, a tight end, a defensive back, and a kicker.
Gamecocks Entering the Transfer Portal
- TE: Michael Smith
- WR: Brian Rowe Jr.
- WR: Emazon Littlejohn
- QB: Air Noland
- OT: Cason Henry
- OT: Tree Babalade
- OT: Mac Walters
- IOL: Nick Sharpe
- IOL: Rodney Newsome Jr.
- IOL: Trovon Baugh
- DL: Zavion Hardy
- DL: Chase Kibble
- EDGE: Taeshawn Alston
- LB: Jaron Willis
- DB: Myles Norwood
- K: Peyton Argent
Where Will South Carolina Look for Replacements?
The most pressing concern for South Carolina entering the portal is the offensive line, which struggled mightily in 2025 due to injuries and inconsistent play. The unit saw a significant regression from the previous season and has now been heavily depleted by transfers.
While internal options such as freshman signee Darius Gray, 2024 addition Shedrick Sarratt Jr., and the return of left tackle Josiah Thompson offer some optimism, the Gamecocks still need immediate contributors at guard, center, and right tackle. Expect South Carolina to aggressively pursue three or more offensive linemen during the portal window.
The defensive line is another area of emphasis, as multiple players have either transferred or exhausted eligibility. Defensive line coach Deion Barnes and defensive coordinator Clayton White are expected to prioritize reinforcing that group.
Additional needs include wide receiver, tight end, defensive back, and running back, making this portal cycle a crucial one for reshaping the roster ahead of next season.
Stay tuned to South Carolina Gamecocks on SI for real-time transfer portal updates as the window opens Friday, including new commitments and roster additions as they occur.
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