South Carolina Freshman Shedrick Sarratt Jr. Named to Shaun Alexander Award Watch List
South Carolina offensive lineman Shedrick Sarratt Jr. is already making noise before his first college snap. On Tuesday, the true freshman earned a spot on the preseason watch list for the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award, presented annually to the nation’s top first-year player. The honor is named after former Alabama star and 2005 NFL MVP Shaun Alexander.
A four-star prospect out of Gaffney High School, Sarratt arrived on campus as an early enrollee this winter and quickly stood out. Measuring 6-foot-4 and 336 pounds, he combines rare size with athleticism and was recognized as South Carolina’s Offensive Newcomer of the Spring. He’s now competing for a starting role at guard ahead of Sunday’s season opener.
Sarratt is one of 37 players nationwide selected to the watch list. The Shaun Alexander Award, established in 2018, highlights college football’s most impactful freshmen each season. According to the Maxwell Football Club, the award focuses on four pillars — Talent, Character, Ambassador, and Legend — and celebrates players poised to become future stars.
From the program’s official release:
COLUMBIA, S.C. (August 26, 2025) – University of South Carolina offensive lineman Shedrick Sarratt Jr. is one of 37 players named to the eighth annual Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award Watch List, the Maxwell Football Club announced today.
South Carolina is no stranger to this recognition. Just last year, Gamecock edge rusher Dylan Stewart was a finalist for the award in 2024.
Sarratt and the Gamecocks kick off the 2025 season on Sunday, Aug. 31, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta against Virginia Tech in the Aflac Kickoff Game. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET, with ESPN carrying the broadcast.
