South Carolina Gamecocks in the NFL: Rookie Performances Recap
South Carolina Gamecocks in the NFL: Rookie Performances Recap
As the NFL season kicks off each year, one of the exciting aspects for fans of college football is seeing how former stars from their alma maters perform at the highest level of football. For South Carolina Gamecocks fans, the transition of their top players from college to professional football is always an event to keep an eye on. With a rich history of producing NFL talent, South Carolina continues to be a pipeline for future stars.
In the 2024 NFL season, a number of South Carolina’s top prospects from the most recent draft class made their debuts. With varying levels of expectations and preparation, these rookies brought the pride of the Gamecocks program with them as they embarked on their NFL journeys. Here’s a detailed recap of the rookie performances from South Carolina’s 2024 NFL draft class, highlighting their transitions into the league and how they’ve adjusted to their new environments.
1. Jalen Brooks – Wide Receiver – Los Angeles Rams
Jalen Brooks had a quiet but steady rise at South Carolina, making a name for himself with his reliability and big-play potential. The wide receiver, who wasn’t the biggest name on the team in his first few years but grew into a more prominent role, was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the 2024 NFL Draft.
In his rookie campaign, Brooks has managed to make an impact despite being part of a wide receiver room that already features established names. His first season in the NFL has been a mix of learning and competing, as he slowly adjusted to the speed and intensity of the NFL game. In the first few games of the season, Brooks has seen limited action, primarily as a depth player, but he has shown flashes of the athleticism and hands that made him a promising prospect at South Carolina.
In Week 3, Brooks had a career highlight with a 45-yard reception in the second quarter that set up a critical touchdown for the Rams. Although his total yardage in his rookie season has been modest, his potential is undeniable, and the Rams coaching staff has been impressed with his work ethic. Moving forward, Brooks will likely see more playing time as he continues to refine his route-running and adjust to the NFL’s physicality.
2. Zacch Pickens – Defensive Tackle – Chicago Bears
One of the most highly touted South Carolina prospects heading into the draft, Zacch Pickens, was selected by the Chicago Bears in the 2024 NFL Draft. Pickens was a key fixture on the Gamecocks’ defensive line, known for his ability to disrupt the quarterback and clog running lanes. His combination of size, strength, and quickness made him a versatile defensive tackle that could play multiple positions along the line.
Pickens quickly earned a starting spot on the Bears’ defensive line. In his debut game, he showcased his powerful presence in the trenches, recording 3 tackles and a sack against a formidable opponent in the Packers’ offensive line. His ability to penetrate the backfield and disrupt plays immediately became evident as he adjusted well to the speed and physicality of the NFL. By midseason, Pickens had already become one of the most disruptive defensive tackles on the Bears’ roster, tallying several more sacks and tackles for loss.
He has developed a strong rapport with Chicago’s veteran defensive players, learning techniques that will further enhance his skills. With a season-high of 8 tackles and 4 sacks by the halfway point of his rookie year, Pickens is on track to make a major impact as he continues to adjust to the demands of professional football.
3. Cam Smith – Cornerback – Miami Dolphins
Cam Smith, a standout cornerback during his time at South Carolina, was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Smith, known for his physicality and excellent ball skills, had the potential to be an immediate contributor to an NFL secondary that already featured some strong talent.
Through the first several games of the season, Smith’s rookie campaign has been nothing short of impressive. Although he was expected to develop behind more experienced players early in his career, Smith’s ability to read the quarterback and track receivers has enabled him to earn significant playing time. In Week 2, Smith intercepted his first NFL pass, a crucial pick that helped seal a Dolphins victory over the Buffalo Bills. His aggressive style of play has been effective against both the pass and run, as he’s demonstrated solid tackling ability to support Miami’s defense as a whole.
Despite some early rookie mistakes—particularly with his timing on a few deep balls—Smith’s raw potential has shown through in every game he’s played. Miami’s coaching staff has praised his physical maturity and ability to grow quickly in the defensive scheme, especially when tasked with facing some of the league’s elite receivers. As the season progresses, Smith’s role within the Dolphins’ secondary continues to expand, and he is quickly becoming a fan favorite in Miami.
4. Dakereon Joyner – Running Back – Kansas City Chiefs
Dakereon Joyner’s transition from wide receiver to running back at South Carolina was one of the more intriguing storylines of the Gamecocks’ 2023 season. Joyner, a versatile player who had spent time at multiple positions, was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs for his unique blend of skills. His ability to run, catch passes, and block made him a valuable asset to a team like the Chiefs, who prize flexibility and creativity in their offensive game plans.
In his rookie season, Joyner initially saw limited snaps in the backfield as the Chiefs eased him into their fast-paced offense. However, as the season has progressed, Joyner’s speed and elusiveness have caught the attention of his coaches. In Week 5, he scored his first touchdown in the NFL, a 20-yard reception from quarterback Patrick Mahomes during a blowout win against the Denver Broncos. Joyner’s ability to contribute as both a rusher and a receiver out of the backfield is exactly what Kansas City has been looking for in their depth behind star running back Isiah Pacheco.
Joyner’s early performances have been promising, showing his ability to make plays in space and contribute to the Chiefs’ dynamic offensive attack. His development as a running back is still a work in progress, but given Kansas City’s track record of developing versatile players, Joyner is poised to be an important piece of their future plans.
5. Jaheim Bell – Tight End – San Francisco 49ers
Jaheim Bell, one of the more dynamic offensive threats during his time at South Carolina, was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers as a versatile tight end. Bell, who spent time playing both tight end and fullback in college, was known for his ability to create mismatches in the passing game. His athleticism made him a dangerous weapon for the Gamecocks, and the 49ers believed his skill set could help their already potent offense.
Bell’s rookie year has been largely spent in a rotational role, as the 49ers have a deep and talented roster. However, Bell’s ability to stretch the field with his athleticism and make key receptions has quickly caught the attention of head coach Kyle Shanahan. In Week 4, Bell recorded his first touchdown, a 12-yard reception on a well-designed play near the end zone. His size and speed make him a matchup nightmare for defenses, and while his snap count has been limited, he has been used strategically in high-leverage situations.
Bell’s future with the 49ers looks bright as he continues to learn from one of the best tight end rooms in the league. His ability to play both inline and as a slot receiver allows him to be a versatile piece of San Francisco’s offense, and it’s clear that Bell will only grow more comfortable in the system as his rookie year continues.
6. A.J. Cann – Offensive Guard – Jacksonville Jaguars (Veteran Presence)
While A.J. Cann is no longer a rookie, it’s worth noting the importance of his continued contributions in the NFL. After his successful career at South Carolina, Cann has solidified his place as a starting offensive guard for the Jacksonville Jaguars. In his second season with the Jaguars, Cann has become a crucial part of the team’s offensive line, providing stability and leadership for a young team on the rise.
Though Cann is a few years removed from his rookie season, his continued performance as a solid starter demonstrates the lasting impact of South Carolina’s offensive line development on NFL teams. His ability to protect quarterbacks and create running lanes has been invaluable to the Jaguars, and his experience is something that younger players can lean on in high-pressure moments.
