The countdown is almost over for one of South Carolina’s top two-way prospects. Cross High School standout Caden Ramsey will announce his college commitment Monday at 12:30 p.m. at his school. His final four includes South Carolina, Virginia Tech, Georgia, and Syracuse — but according to his head coach, Shawn Wright, the decision really comes down to two.
“I think he knows what he’s going to do,” Wright said. “Both schools did an awesome job recruiting him and making him feel as though they really want him a part of their program. I know he likes both coaching staffs. He’s just excited to be able to take his talents to either one of those schools.”
Ramsey, a 6-foot-5, 210-pound athlete, grabbed South Carolina’s attention in June after a standout workout at camp. Tight ends coach Shawn Elliott extended the offer and envisions Ramsey as more of a versatile hybrid option than a traditional tight end.
“Elliott definitely likes him as a hybrid, one of those tight ends that doesn’t necessarily put his hands in the ground, but they can flank him out,” Wright explained. “They want mismatches against linebackers and safeties. I had a conversation with Coach (Shane) Beamer, and he didn’t know Ramsey led the state in interceptions last year. He’s pretty sure his defensive back coach would want to try him as well.”
Virginia Tech, meanwhile, has taken a more straightforward approach, recruiting Ramsey strictly as a tight end.
Whichever program wins out, Wright believes they’re getting a competitor with a unique edge.
“He’s a very, very competitive kid,” Wright said. “His will to win, he just doesn’t like to lose. Through these first two ballgames, he has taken off. We’re talking two interceptions, think he ran a kickoff back 70-something yards the other night, and two receiving touchdowns. He’s on pace to have a really outstanding year.”
Ramsey, who was a two-way force last season with 46 catches for 749 yards and nine touchdowns on offense and a state-best 14 interceptions on defense, is scheduled to be at South Carolina’s home game against SC State this Saturday. He also plans to make his official visit to Columbia the following weekend.
