South Carolina seniors Torricelli Simpkins and O’Donnell Fortune have both accepted invitations to compete in the prestigious 2025 Hula Bowl, an all-star game where NFL Draft prospects can showcase their abilities in front of scouts and coaches. Traditionally held in Hawaii, this year’s game will be played at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida, on January 11, 2025, and will be broadcast live on CBS at noon, giving fans across the country a chance to see these players in action.
Simpkins, an offensive lineman who transferred to South Carolina from North Carolina Central, earned FCS All-American honors before joining the Gamecocks. In his first and only season with the team, he proved his versatility by playing multiple positions along the offensive line, primarily guard, and was named All-SEC in 2024. His impressive performance has caught the attention of NFL scouts, with some projecting him as a potential late-round pick.
O’Donnell FortuneFortune, a cornerback from South Carolina, has been with the Gamecocks since 2020. After a few seasons as a reserve, he earned a starting role in 2023 and received All-SEC honors as a senior. Known for his solid defensive skills, Fortune is expected to be selected on day three of the NFL Draft, according to various analysts.
Their participation in the Hula Bowl highlights the strength of South Carolina’s football program and its ability to develop NFL-caliber talent. In addition to Simpkins and Fortune, several other Gamecocks players—Josh Simon (tight end), DeAndre Jules (defensive tackle), and Gage Larvadain (wide receiver)—have also committed to this year’s Hula Bowl. Other South Carolina players are set to compete in the Senior Bowl and East-West Shrine Bowl, further emphasizing the program’s success in preparing players for professional careers.
As the Hula Bowl approaches, both Simpkins and Fortune are eager to enhance their draft stock by showcasing their skills on a national stage. Their hard work and resilience have led them to this moment, and both players are expected to make a strong impression on scouts and fans alike.
Leave a Reply