Live Update: South Carolina Drops Four-Star Linebacker Rodney Colton Jr. from 2026 Class
In a surprising turn of events, South Carolina has parted ways with four-star linebacker Rodney Colton Jr., a 2026 commitment. Colton confirmed the news to The State late Tuesday night, with initial reports breaking on TheBigSpur.
What Happened?
According to Colton, the decision came after a phone call with Gamecocks defensive coordinator Clayton White, who questioned Colton’s commitment to the program.
“(White said), I don’t show that I was committed — I show that I’m a free agent or something,” Colton revealed. “Like, dang, that’s how you feel? All right, it might be that time.”
Colton expressed frustration, citing his long-standing loyalty to South Carolina.
“I’ve been committed since my 10th-grade year, and that should show you I have loyalty to the school,” Colton said. “I picked up dang near 20 offers this year and I’ve been committed for two years and didn’t switch up.”
Timeline of Commitment
The 6-foot-1, 215-pound linebacker from Newnan, Georgia, committed to the Gamecocks in April 2024. He also mentioned that South Carolina attempted to convince him to reclassify and join the 2025 class, but he declined, citing his age and readiness.
“I was gonna go there, work my ass off and see where it got me,” Colton explained. “But, shoot, I’ll put it in God’s hands now.”
Speculation and Visits
The decision may stem from Colton’s recent visits to Georgia, Florida, and Tennessee, fueling speculation about his commitment. In October, 247Sports analyst Tom Loy predicted that Colton might flip to the Volunteers.
Colton, however, downplayed the visits.
“I was just doing that because there’s people on my team who probably ain’t ever get the chance to see (these) colleges,” he said. “I’m really just taking them, enjoying time with my bros before they go to college and I go to college. Just having fun. … We didn’t even do visits. We just went to the games. That should tell you something.”
Shock and Disappointment
Despite the rumors, Colton was caught off guard by South Carolina’s decision to drop him from the 2026 class.
“I said I’m committing to you and when I say I’m committing, that’s like marriage,” he shared. “I was just like, ‘Y’all gonna let me go?’ OK, I ain’t the type to beg.”
Impact on South Carolina’s Recruiting
With Colton’s departure, South Carolina now has just five commitments in its 2026 class, none of whom are linebackers.
South Carolina 2026 Commitments:
- Anthony Baxter (OL) – Committed May 5
- Keenan Britt (DE) – Committed Aug. 5
- Jamel Howse (TE) – Committed Oct. 5
- J’zavien Currence (DB) – Committed Oct. 17
- Peyton Dyer (DB) – Committed Nov. 4
What’s Next for Colton?
Ranked as the nation’s No. 127 overall recruit according to the 247Sports Composite, Colton remains a highly sought-after prospect. While South Carolina’s staff may still attempt to recruit him, his next move remains uncertain.
For now, Colton’s focus is clear:
“I’ll put it in God’s hands,” he said, signaling that his recruitment journey is far from over.
