South Carolina football has entered the race for one of Florida’s fastest-rising young athletes. On Tuesday, the Gamecocks extended a scholarship offer to class of 2027 standout James Bethea, a versatile playmaker from Vanguard High School whose recruitment is heating up in a hurry.
Although Bethea has yet to break into the major recruiting rankings, his offer sheet already looks like that of a top national prospect. Alongside South Carolina, he has pulled in offers from Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Oklahoma, Miami, Tennessee, Kentucky, Texas A&M, Auburn, Vanderbilt, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Houston, Washington, Louisville, Rutgers, Duke, Georgia Tech, UCF, and several others. Most of these opportunities have arrived since the spring, making him one of the biggest breakout names in the 2027 cycle.
Bethea had previously released a top 10 list, but that came before several of his most high-profile offers. He also earned a nomination for the Navy All-American Bowl, a recognition that further cements his growing reputation.
At 6-foot-1, 190 pounds, Bethea is a true three-phase contributor. On offense, he shines as a wide receiver with sharp route running, toughness over the middle, and the speed to stretch defenses vertically. He also brings an edge as a blocker, showing unusual physicality and effort for a young wideout.
Defensively, Bethea primarily lines up at safety, where his instincts and aggression are evident. He closes quickly in run support and has a knack for creating turnovers, whether by breaking up passes or forcing fumbles.
His impact doesn’t stop there — Bethea is also a difference-maker on special teams. Coaches rave about his energy and willingness to contribute no matter the role, a trait that energizes teammates around him.
South Carolina’s decision to offer Bethea underscores the program’s commitment to identifying versatile, high-upside athletes early in the recruiting process. With his recruitment just beginning to take off, the Gamecocks have positioned themselves firmly in the mix for one of the Southeast’s most intriguing young prospects.
