South Carolina has officially announced that veteran defensive back Myles Norwood will depart the program after just one season with the Gamecocks, adding to an already busy offseason of roster turnover.
Norwood, who transferred in from Ball State ahead of the 2025 season, is set to enter the NCAA transfer portal when it opens on January 2. His decision makes him the 10th scholarship player from South Carolina to do so this cycle and the first defensive back to leave via the portal.
During the 2025 campaign, Norwood played in 10 games and started twice, logging 242 defensive snaps, per Pro Football Focus. He recorded 19 tackles and was regularly used in coverage. While his coverage grade of 45 ranked lowest among Gamecock defenders with significant coverage snaps, he stood out against the run. His 72 run-defense grade ranked ninth on the team, underscoring his physical approach and willingness to contribute in run support.
Quarterbacks targeted Norwood 21 times this season, completing 15 passes for 171 yards. He did not allow a touchdown but also failed to register a pass breakup. His tackling grade of 55 was the lowest among South Carolina cornerbacks.
Norwood’s departure further reshapes a secondary already losing key veterans Jalon Kilgore, DQ Smith, and Brandon Cisse to the NFL Draft. Looking ahead to the 2026 season, South Carolina will rely on Vicari Swain, Peyton Williams, and Judge Collier as its most experienced returning defensive backs while seeking reinforcements through recruiting and the transfer portal.
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