South Carolina is poised to lose one of its young and talented running backs to the transfer portal, as sophomore tailback Djay Braswell has announced his decision to enter the portal when it officially opens on Monday, December 9. This move comes as a surprise to many fans and analysts, considering Braswell’s potential and the significant role he could have played in the future of the Gamecocks’ backfield.
Braswell made his announcement public through a heartfelt message on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday afternoon, sharing his reflections on his time at South Carolina.
In his message, Braswell expressed deep gratitude for his time at USC, writing, “This experience has truly been special to me. I have created lifelong friendships and memories, which I will always cherish. My time at USC has helped shape and mold me, and I am truly appreciative of the opportunities I’ve received here.”
His words reflect the personal growth and positive experiences he had while being a part of the Gamecocks’ program, despite his decision to seek opportunities elsewhere. Braswell’s acknowledgment of the relationships he’s built and the memories he’s created suggests that his decision to leave is not made lightly, but rather as part of his personal journey and development.
Braswell’s departure could leave a noticeable gap in South Carolina’s running back depth, as he had shown flashes of promise during his time with the team. Though his role was limited as a sophomore, Braswell had the potential to become a key figure in the backfield.
His decision to enter the portal signals that he is looking for new opportunities to make an impact at a different program, whether that means securing more playing time or finding a better fit for his skills and ambitions. This move also highlights the ever-changing landscape of college football, where student-athletes are increasingly seeking to maximize their opportunities, especially when it comes to finding the right system and playing time.
For South Carolina, Braswell’s exit adds to the growing trend of athletes using the transfer portal to explore new possibilities, and it will likely prompt the coaching staff to reassess their running back rotation moving forward.
While the Gamecocks will certainly miss his potential contributions, Braswell’s departure is a reminder of the fluid nature of college football rosters and the evolving choices players are making in pursuit of their goals. As for Braswell, his announcement opens up a new chapter in his football career, one where he hopes to continue his development and find a place that will best support his future aspirations.
