Eleven Gamecocks from South Carolina are invited to the 2025 NFL Combine.

The University of South Carolina continues to establish itself as a powerhouse in college football, producing elite talent for the NFL. The 2025 NFL Draft class is poised to showcase one of the most robust collections of talent from the Gamecocks program in recent years, as 11 South Carolina players have received invitations to the NFL Scouting Combine. This prestigious event, which serves as a key step in the NFL Draft process, gives players the opportunity to showcase their physical and mental skills in front of scouts, coaches, and team executives. These Gamecocks have the chance to improve their stock, impress the NFL’s decision-makers, and potentially hear their names called early in the draft.

For the South Carolina football program, this high number of Combine invitees is a testament to the program’s growth and the caliber of athletes it is producing. From standout performances to high expectations, these 11 players represent the bright future of Gamecock football. Their participation at the NFL Combine not only reflects their individual abilities but also highlights the work of head coach Shane Beamer and his staff in developing talent and preparing athletes for the next level.

Let’s dive into the 11 South Carolina Gamecocks who were invited to the 2025 NFL Combine, their backgrounds, strengths, and what to expect from them as they look to make a significant impact on the NFL Draft.

1. Spencer Rattler (Quarterback)

The headliner of the group, Spencer Rattler, is one of the most intriguing prospects heading into the NFL Draft. As a highly-rated recruit out of high school, Rattler’s college career has been a rollercoaster, but he has shown flashes of brilliance during his time at South Carolina. Known for his strong arm, accuracy, and ability to make plays under pressure, Rattler has proven he can be one of the top quarterbacks in college football.

After transferring to South Carolina from Oklahoma, Rattler had a strong finish to his career, leading the Gamecocks to some notable victories and improving his draft stock. He possesses a natural ability to throw the deep ball, as well as mobility in the pocket. At the Combine, Rattler will look to showcase his arm strength, decision-making, and leadership skills. His combine performance will be critical to whether he goes in the first round or further down the draft board.

2. Zach Pickens (Defensive Tackle)

Zach Pickens is one of the top defensive linemen in the country and a player whose blend of size, strength, and agility makes him a valuable commodity in the NFL. Standing at 6’4” and weighing over 300 pounds, Pickens is a true force on the interior of the defensive line. Throughout his career at South Carolina, he has been an anchor for the Gamecocks’ defensive front, consistently disrupting the quarterback and wreaking havoc in the backfield.

Pickens is known for his quickness off the line of scrimmage and his ability to shed blockers. He has the potential to be an immediate contributor at the next level, with teams coveting his versatility as both a run stopper and pass rusher. At the NFL Combine, Pickens will look to prove he has the speed and strength necessary to excel at the professional level. His performance in the drills and interviews will be crucial for improving his draft stock.

3. Cam Smith (Cornerback)

Another high-profile Gamecock is Cam Smith, one of the best cornerbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Smith is a shutdown corner with the ability to cover a wide variety of receivers, from big-bodied wideouts to smaller, shiftier players. His ball skills, including his ability to create turnovers and disrupt passing lanes, make him one of the top defensive backs in the nation. His physicality and willingness to step up in run support add another layer to his appeal.

Smith’s combination of size, speed, and technique will be on full display at the NFL Combine. If he performs well in the 40-yard dash and agility drills, he could solidify himself as a first-round pick. His ability to impress with his football IQ during interviews and combine workouts will be key to moving up draft boards, especially for teams in need of an impact cornerback.

4. Jalen Brooks (Wide Receiver)

Jalen Brooks was a steady presence in the Gamecocks’ receiving corps during his time at South Carolina. His strong hands and reliable route running made him a favorite target for Rattler, and he has the size (6’3”, 210 pounds) and athleticism to be a productive receiver at the next level. Brooks is known for his ability to go up and get the ball, making contested catches look easy. He also has the speed to stretch the field and make big plays in the open field.

Brooks will have a chance to prove his athleticism at the NFL Combine, where he will be scrutinized in drills like the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, and three-cone drill. If he can impress scouts with his speed and explosiveness, Brooks could push his way into the mid-to-late rounds of the draft.

5. Aliyah Boston (Linebacker)

As one of the best linebackers in the SEC and a leader for the South Carolina defense, Aliyah Boston enters the NFL Combine with a lot to prove. Known for his sideline-to-sideline speed and ability to read offenses, Boston has the type of versatility that NFL teams covet. Whether it’s in pass coverage, rushing the passer, or stopping the run, Boston has shown he can contribute in any aspect of the game.

His performance at the Combine will be critical to proving his speed and agility in the drills. If he tests well in the short shuttle, 3-cone drill, and broad jump, Boston’s stock could rise significantly. His football IQ and leadership abilities will also be under scrutiny, especially during the interviews.

6. Jordan Burch (Defensive End)

Jordan Burch is another elite defender from South Carolina who will be one of the stars at the NFL Combine. With his raw talent and athleticism, Burch has the potential to be a first-round pick. Standing at 6’5” and weighing 250 pounds, Burch has an ideal build for a pass rusher at the next level. He is known for his explosiveness off the line, his ability to shed blockers, and his relentless motor. Throughout his career, Burch has consistently been a problem for opposing quarterbacks, and his skills are only improving as he gains more experience.

At the Combine, Burch will need to showcase his athleticism and explosive power in the various drills. His ability to put together a strong 40-yard dash time and improve his speed in the shuttle drills could help solidify his status as one of the top pass rushers available in the draft.

7. Darius Rush (Cornerback)

Darius Rush is another cornerback from South Carolina who has impressed scouts with his size, speed, and ability to cover receivers. At 6’1” and 205 pounds, Rush has a physical edge that sets him apart from many of his peers. His length and agility make him a matchup nightmare for wide receivers. Rush has shown a keen ability to read quarterbacks and create turnovers.

Like Cam Smith, Rush will look to shine at the Combine, especially in the 40-yard dash and position drills. If he can display his high level of coverage skills and impress with his agility, Rush could see his draft stock rise in the coming weeks.

8. Marcellus Dial (Safety)

Marcellus Dial is a versatile safety who can play both free and strong safety. With a good mix of size (6’2”, 210 pounds) and athleticism, Dial is able to cover a lot of ground and is effective in both pass coverage and as a tackler. Dial will be showcasing his physicality, speed, and football IQ during the Combine. His ability to show scouts that he can be an asset in both pass coverage and run support will be key to his draft prospects.

9. Jaheim Bell (Tight End)

Jaheim Bell has been one of South Carolina’s most versatile offensive weapons, known for his ability to line up as both a tight end and a fullback. Bell has excellent hands and can stretch the field with his speed. He’s also an effective blocker, making him a well-rounded player for NFL teams looking for a two-way tight end.

At the NFL Combine, Bell will need to show off his explosiveness and agility to boost his stock. His ability to run fast, catch the ball, and block effectively could help him become one of the top tight ends in the draft.

10. Jalen Nichols (Offensive Line)

The Gamecocks’ offensive line was one of the best in the SEC, and Jalen Nichols was a key component. Nichols has shown that he has the ability to both pass protect and open up holes in the running game. His combination of size (6’5”, 325 pounds) and quickness makes him an ideal candidate for the NFL.

Nichols will need to showcase his technical skills and athleticism during the Combine. Offensive line drills, including the bench press, shuttle, and footwork drills, will all be critical for Nichols as he looks to earn a place in the NFL.

11. Jerrion Ealy (Running Back)

Although Jerrion Ealy is relatively new to South Carolina, his quickness, agility, and vision have made him a standout. Ealy possesses the kind of burst that NFL teams love in a running back, and he

will aim to showcase those abilities at the Combine. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield and return kicks also adds versatility to his game, giving him additional value for NFL teams.

At the Combine, Ealy will be trying to prove that he has the speed and explosiveness to be a game-changer at the next level.