In an exciting move for the South Carolina Gamecocks, former Western Kentucky offensive lineman Rodney Newsom is set to join the team for the upcoming season. This transfer marks a significant addition to the Gamecocks’ roster as they look to bolster their offensive line. Newsom spent just one season with the Hilltoppers, but he brings valuable experience and has two years of eligibility remaining.
Rodney Newsom’s Journey to South Carolina
Standing at 6-foot-3, Newsom showcased his skills by playing in all 14 games for WKU last season. His journey to this point has been quite the adventure. After a year at Itawamba Community College in Mississippi, he joined Western Kentucky, where he quickly made an impact. Before his time at WKU, Newsom spent two seasons at Memphis, where he began his college football career.
High School Highlights and Recruiting Background
Newsom’s football journey began at Briarcrest Christian School in Tennessee, where he was recognized as a three-star recruit in the 2020 class. According to the On3 Industry Ranking, he was ranked as the No. 2,256 overall player and the No. 158 interior offensive lineman in his recruiting cycle. His impressive high school performance laid the foundation for his collegiate success and eventual transfer to South Carolina.
Transfer Portal Trends and Statistics
The transfer portal has become a hotbed for college football movement, and this year is no exception. The portal officially opened on December 9, 2024, and during the 2023-24 school year, over 2,800 FBS scholarship players entered their names into the NCAA’s transfer database. After accounting for those who withdrew or declared for the NFL, the final total stood at 2,707 transfers. So far in this cycle, 2,160 players have entered the portal, with 676 already committing to new schools. This trend reflects the increasing mobility of college athletes and the competitive nature of college football.
Newsom Joins a Growing Transfer Class
Rodney Newsom is not alone in his transfer journey; he is the seventh commitment in the Gamecocks’ transfer portal class. He joins a diverse group of talent, including EDGE Jaylen Brown from Missouri, interior offensive lineman Nick Sharpe from Wake Forest, tight end Jordan Dingle from Kentucky, defensive tackle Gabriel Brownlow-Dindy from Texas A&M, linebacker Shawn Murphy, and quarterback Air Noland from Ohio State. This influx of talent is a testament to South Carolina’s commitment to building a competitive program.
LaNorris Sellers Secures His Future with NIL Deal
In other exciting news for South Carolina, star quarterback LaNorris Sellers has signed a new NIL deal with the Gamecocks’ NIL collective, Garnet Trust, ensuring his return to Columbia for the 2025 season. Sellers has an impressive On3 NIL Valuation of $2.7 million, reflecting his value both on and off the field.
Sellers’ Impressive Performance and Impact
During the 2024 season, Sellers established himself as a key player for the Gamecocks, throwing for 2,274 yards and 17 touchdowns while also contributing 655 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. His performance played a crucial role in leading South Carolina to a 9-3 record, including a remarkable six-game win streak to close out the year, narrowly missing out on the College Football Playoff.
Maintaining Momentum Amid Transfer Interest
With his impressive performance, it’s no surprise that Sellers attracted interest from multiple schools eager to secure his talents. Reports indicate that numerous programs reached out to him and his representatives, particularly after standout performances, including the LSU game. As the buzz around him grew, South Carolina had to act quickly to retain their star quarterback. Garnet Trust has not disclosed the specifics of the agreement, but sources suggest it aligns with other top quarterback deals in college football.
Staying Updated on College Football Transfers
As the college football landscape continues to evolve, keeping track of player movements is essential for fans and analysts alike. For those eager to stay informed about the latest transfers and commitments, On3’s Transfer Portal wire is an excellent resource. Additionally, following the On3 Transfer Portal accounts on social media platforms can provide real-time updates on player movements and news.
With Rodney Newsom’s transfer to South Carolina and LaNorris Sellers’ new NIL deal, the Gamecocks are poised for an exciting season ahead. As they continue to build their roster through the transfer portal, fans can look forward to a competitive and thrilling college football experience in the coming year.
