COLUMBIA — The Gamecocks weren’t finished adjusting their coaching roster.
Following the appointment of Penn State’s Deion Barnes as the new edge rusher/outside linebackers mentor to succeed Sterling Lucas by two days, South Carolina promoted veteran secondary coach Torrian Gray to dual roles as assistant head coach and co-defensive coordinator. The University of South Carolina Board of Trustees validated this decision on December 26, simultaneously disclosing Barnes’ compensation structure.
Gray maintains his existing responsibilities overseeing defensive backs and coordinating the defensive passing game. His compensation increased to $1 million annually from his prior $850,000 package, with his contract extending through the conclusion of the 2027 season.
Barnes signed a two-year agreement. His earnings will be $675,000 during the 2026 campaign and $775,000 for the 2027 season.
The university covered his departure fee from Penn State, totaling $25,428.
Gamecock Coaching Personnel
Shane Beamer, head coach
Deion Barnes, defensive ends/outside linebackers
Kendal Briles, offensive coordinator/quarterbacks
Randy Clements, offensive line
Joe DeCamillis, associate head coach/special teams coordinator
Stan Drayton, assistant head coach for offense/running backs
Shawn Elliott, run game coordinator/tight ends
Mike Furrey, passing game coordinator/wide receivers
Torrian Gray, assistant head coach, co-defensive coordinator, defensive pass game coordinator/defensive backs
Clayton White, defensive coordinator/inside linebackers
