South Carolina football landed one of its biggest recruiting victories of the cycle last week, securing a flip from four-star EDGE Julian Walker, who had been committed to Michigan. Despite being long expected to join the Wolverines, Walker reversed course and picked the Gamecocks — even after a late, aggressive push from North Carolina head coach Bill Belichick. His commitment came just 48 hours before he helped lead Dutch Fork to another 5A Division I state championship, the program’s fourth straight. After the win, Dutch Fork head coach Tom Knotts offered insight into Walker’s hectic final recruiting stretch during an interview with WACH Fox’s Claire Foley.
“I was a little worried about him because he was so distracted,” Knotts said. “Belichick kept him on the phone for an hour, promising money and all kinds of incentives. It was just crazy.” He continued, “He was under a lot of stress.”
Reports had recently surfaced regarding North Carolina GM Michael Lombardi’s fundraising trip to Saudi Arabia, which aligned with the Tar Heels signing 39 players last week — a class that ranked fifth nationally. Despite the financial allure and heavy attention from UNC, Walker ultimately prioritized comfort and personal fit. For the Irmo native, staying close to home with South Carolina simply made the most sense.
Walker now joins a Gamecock recruiting class ranked 15th in the nation — the strongest group assembled under Shane Beamer. Rivals lists him as the No. 2 signee in the class and the No. 72 overall prospect.
With Walker on board, South Carolina adds a dynamic pass-rushing presence as the program continues assembling one of the top talent groups in the country.
