South Carolina Gamecocks in the NFL: Rookie Performances Recap

The South Carolina Gamecocks have been a consistent source of talent for the NFL, producing several standout players over the years. As the 2024 NFL season continues to unfold, Gamecock alumni are making their mark as rookies, and this year’s draft class has been no exception. From explosive wide receivers to gritty defensive players, these rookies are eager to prove that their college success can translate to the professional level.

This article takes a detailed look at the rookie performances of former South Carolina Gamecocks who entered the NFL in 2024. We will analyze the key players, their early impact on their teams, and assess their progress thus far in their inaugural seasons. As we review their performances, we’ll consider how their transitions from Spurs Up to the pros have unfolded, what their potential is moving forward, and the impact they are having on their respective teams.

1. Spencer Rattler – Quarterback (Drafted by the Arizona Cardinals)

Spencer Rattler, once a highly touted prospect coming out of high school and transferring to South Carolina after stints at Oklahoma, entered the 2024 NFL Draft with high expectations. His arm strength, mobility, and competitive nature had some scouts intrigued, despite inconsistency during his final years at South Carolina. Despite not being drafted as high as expected, Rattler landed with the Arizona Cardinals.

Performance Recap:

In 2024, Rattler found himself behind Kyler Murray, Arizona’s established starting quarterback. As the Cardinals’ backup quarterback, Rattler spent much of the season as a developmental player, learning the playbook and improving his mechanics. However, in midseason, Murray suffered an injury, and Rattler was called up to the starting role. This was a pivotal moment in his young career, as the Cardinals’ offense struggled to find consistency, and Rattler had to adjust quickly to the speed and complexity of the NFL.

While Rattler showcased flashes of potential, particularly with his ability to make throws on the run and extend plays, his decision-making and consistency remained issues. In his first few starts, Rattler threw two touchdowns and four interceptions and had mixed reviews from coaches and analysts alike. His footwork and deep ball accuracy were notably better than during his South Carolina tenure, but he also struggled with timing and reading defenses at the professional level.

Outlook:

Moving forward, Rattler’s development is key for the Cardinals. If he continues to work on his mechanics and decision-making, he could eventually emerge as a legitimate option to challenge for starting reps in the future. As a rookie, it’s too early to judge, but the experience of playing in the NFL early on will pay dividends in his continued growth.

2. Zacch Pickens – Defensive Tackle (Drafted by the Chicago Bears)

Zacch Pickens was a dominant force on the defensive line during his time with the Gamecocks, known for his athleticism, quickness, and ability to disrupt the pocket. His ability to get after the quarterback and stuff the run made him a valuable commodity in the 2024 NFL Draft, where he was selected by the Chicago Bears in the third round.

Performance Recap:

Pickens made an immediate impact on the Bears’ defensive line, playing in all 14 games up to this point in the season. As a versatile defensive tackle, he rotated in and out of the starting lineup, contributing significantly in both pass rushing and run defense. Pickens has proven to be a solid interior force, and he’s shown an ability to break through the offensive line to pressure opposing quarterbacks.

In his first few games, Pickens recorded three sacks, several tackles for loss, and multiple quarterback hits. His biggest improvement has been in his ability to recognize offensive line schemes and make quick adjustments during games. Despite a lack of starting reps early in the season, his playing time has steadily increased, and he’s shown he can handle the speed and physicality of the NFL.

Outlook:

Pickens’ development as a rookie has been positive. His explosive first step and ability to collapse the pocket make him a player to watch. If he continues to refine his technique and get more snaps, he could evolve into a cornerstone piece for the Bears’ defensive front, which has historically struggled with consistency.

3. Juju McDowell – Running Back (Undrafted, Signed by the Indianapolis Colts)

Juju McDowell, a dynamic playmaker for the Gamecocks, was one of the most exciting players to watch during his time at South Carolina. Known for his quickness, vision, and elusiveness as a running back, McDowell went undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft but was quickly signed by the Indianapolis Colts as a free agent.

Performance Recap:

McDowell’s transition to the NFL was not easy. The Colts’ running back room was crowded, with players like Jonathan Taylor and Zack Moss at the top of the depth chart. However, McDowell found a way to carve out a role for himself as a change-of-pace back and special teams contributor.

In his rookie season, McDowell showed flashes of the player who was so explosive in college, displaying quick feet and vision as he navigated through holes in the defense. While his rushing stats don’t jump off the page—he has just 150 yards and 1 touchdown so far—his versatility as a receiver and in the return game has been a key asset for the Colts. McDowell’s ability to catch passes out of the backfield and provide spark plays in the return game has made him an asset on special teams, and he continues to develop as a depth piece for the Colts’ offense.

Outlook:

McDowell’s future in the NFL will depend on his ability to continue to make plays when called upon. If he can further refine his skills as a runner and capitalize on his special teams opportunities, he has the potential to earn a more significant role in the coming years. Though he may never be an every-down back, his dynamic playmaking ability should keep him in the NFL as a contributor.

4. Cam Smith – Cornerback (Drafted by the Miami Dolphins)

One of the most anticipated defensive rookies from South Carolina in the 2024 NFL Draft was Cam Smith, a cornerback known for his ball skills, athleticism, and ability to cover a wide range of receivers. Smith was selected in the second round by the Miami Dolphins, joining a talented defensive unit that had been on the rise.

Performance Recap:

Smith’s rookie campaign has been a bit of a rollercoaster. Early in the season, he had to adjust to the speed and precision of NFL receivers, often going up against some of the league’s best. However, as the season has progressed, Smith has gained more confidence and has started to showcase the skills that made him a standout at South Carolina.

As of midseason, Smith has recorded two interceptions, five pass breakups, and 34 tackles. His ability to stick with receivers in man-to-man coverage and break up passes has been crucial for Miami’s defense. He has also shown great awareness in zone coverage, frequently reading the quarterback’s eyes and jumping routes.

Outlook:

Smith’s future in the NFL looks bright. His versatility, high football IQ, and athleticism make him a promising player for the Dolphins’ secondary. If he can clean up some of his minor issues with technique and timing, he could develop into one of the top cornerbacks in the league. His performance as a rookie has been solid, and he’s expected to grow into a key part of Miami’s defense.

5. Nick Emmanwori – Safety (Undrafted, Signed by the Detroit Lions)

Another Gamecock who went undrafted but quickly made an impact in the NFL is Nick Emmanwori, a safety who was known for his ability to read the quarterback and make plays on the ball at South Carolina. Emmanwori was signed by the Detroit Lions, where he faced stiff competition in a crowded defensive backfield.

Performance Recap:

Emmanwori has had a strong rookie campaign thus far. He’s made a name for himself as a versatile safety, capable of playing both deep in coverage and closer to the line of scrimmage. Emmanwori’s physicality and ability to read the quarterback have made him an important contributor in nickel and dime packages for the Lions.

With two interceptions and several key tackles on the season, Emmanwori has proven that he belongs in the NFL. His ability to be a ball hawk and deliver timely hits has been crucial for the Lions’ defense. While his reps have been more limited compared to other rookies, he’s earned the trust of his coaches and will continue to develop throughout the season.

Outlook:

Emmanwori’s trajectory in the NFL will depend on his continued improvement in coverage skills and consistency. If he can continue to show the kind of ability he has in his rookie season, he could become a staple in the Lions’ secondary.