**South Carolina’s O’Donnell Fortune Aims to Boost NFL Draft Stock at Combine**
The **South Carolina Gamecocks** are well-represented at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, with **11 players** showcasing their talents this week. On Friday, the spotlight turned to defensive backs and tight ends, including longtime Gamecock standout **O’Donnell Fortune**, who is looking to elevate his draft stock with a strong performance.
### **O’Donnell Fortune’s Combine Journey**
Fortune, a versatile defensive back, has been a cornerstone of South Carolina’s secondary. Over his collegiate career, he amassed **108 tackles**, **3 tackles for loss**, and **7 interceptions**, proving his ability to make game-changing plays.
Currently projected as a **late-round pick** by *NFL Mock Draft Database*, Fortune has a golden opportunity to climb draft boards with standout combine results. His measurements and early testing numbers are already turning heads:
– **Height**: 6’0”
– **Weight**: 185 lbs
– **Arm Length**: 31 ½”
– **Hand Size**: 9 ¼”
– **Broad Jump**: 9’9”
Fortune’s performance in the **40-yard dash**, **vertical jump**, and **3-cone drill** will be critical in determining his draft trajectory.
### **South Carolina’s NFL Combine Contenders**
Fortune is one of 11 Gamecocks invited to this year’s Combine, a testament to the program’s growing reputation for developing NFL-ready talent. The full list of participants includes:
– **Raheim Sanders, RB**
– **Joshua Simon, TE**
– **Torricelli Simpkins III, OL**
– **Tonka Hemingway, DL**
– **DeAndre Jules, DL**
– **Kyle Kennard, DL**
– **TJ Sanders, DL**
– **Demetrius Knight Jr., LB**
– **Bam Martin-Scott, LB**
– **Nick Emmanwori, DB**
– **O’Donnell Fortune, DB**
### **What’s at Stake for Fortune?**
For Fortune, the Combine is more than just a showcase—it’s a chance to prove he belongs among the NFL’s elite. His combination of ball skills, athleticism, and experience in the SEC makes him an intriguing prospect, but he’ll need to deliver in key drills to solidify his draft stock.
“O’Donnell’s a playmaker,” said South Carolina head coach **Shane Beamer**. “He’s got the instincts and work ethic to succeed at the next level. This weekend is his chance to show it.”
### **Looking Ahead**
As the Combine continues, all eyes will be on Fortune and his fellow Gamecocks. With strong performances, South Carolina’s contingent could make a significant impact on the 2025 NFL Draft, further cementing the program’s reputation as a pipeline for pro talent.
*Stay tuned for updates on Fortune’s Combine results and the Gamecocks’ rising draft prospects.*
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