Live Recruiting Update: South Carolina Making Big Moves with Brian Harris and Brady Smigiel
The recruiting trail is heating up for South Carolina, and the Gamecocks are making bold moves to secure top talent. This month, recruiter Joe DeCamillis visited Mandarin High School in Jacksonville to scout Brian Harris, a standout defensive tackle currently committed to Maryland. Impressed by Harris’ potential, DeCamillis quickly involved defensive tackles coach Travian Robertson, who reviewed Harris’ film, connected with his coaches, and extended an offer last week.
Harris, standing at 6-foot-2, 285 pounds, didn’t hide his excitement:
“I was ecstatic over the offer and couldn’t wait to visit Columbia.”
That visit happened Saturday during South Carolina’s Junior Day, and according to Harris, it exceeded all expectations.
A Memorable Experience in Columbia
Harris described his visit as nothing short of extraordinary:
“It was an amazing experience, honestly. When I got there, I was baffled for words. The recruiting staff greeted me, and I felt love as soon as I arrived. My mom even said she felt a different presence, and I was glad because I felt it too. Speaking to the coaches was something I’d never experienced before—it was genuine.”
Among the staff, Derrick Moore, South Carolina’s Director of Character and Player Development, left a lasting impression.
“He was exciting. Every word he spoke was intentional, and his energy was contagious. After hearing him, I hugged him and said, ‘You made me go from liking the school to loving the school.’ It was an unforgettable experience.”
Harris also met Travian Robertson in person, praising his transparency:
“He looks mean but has a kind soul. He was honest and genuine, answering all my questions openly.”
Another highlight was meeting head coach Shane Beamer, fresh off signing a contract extension through 2030. Harris said:
“I believe in his dream of winning a championship, especially with the coaching staff he has. Hearing him talk about his vision was exhilarating.”
Meeting a Role Model
The visit wasn’t just about coaches; Harris was thrilled to meet defensive end Dylan Stewart, one of his idols.
“That was amazing. Watching him on TV, I thought he was huge, but standing next to him at 6-4 myself, he wasn’t much bigger than me. He’s been an idol for a while, and seeing him face-to-face was everything.”
While Harris remains committed to Maryland, he admitted South Carolina has positioned itself as a major contender:
“South Carolina is spectacular, unbelievable, honestly. Nothing compares to SEC ball.”
Harris plans to visit Florida on February 1, return to South Carolina for the spring game, and take an official visit in the summer.
The Next Big Quarterback: Brady Smigiel
South Carolina is also making waves with Brady Smigiel, a 2026 quarterback from Newbury Park, California. Smigiel recently decommitted from Florida State following a coaching change and is now exploring new opportunities.
Smigiel, who earned the title of Mr. Football in California, boasts impressive stats, passing for 3,521 yards and 49 touchdowns this season, bringing his career totals to 11,222 yards and 147 touchdowns.
South Carolina entered the mix after Darren Uscher, USC’s Director of Player Personnel, reached out. Head coach Shane Beamer visited Smigiel earlier this month, and the Gamecocks are now in the running alongside programs like Washington, UCLA, Michigan, Michigan State, and Ohio State.
Smigiel’s father, who is also his coach, confirmed that South Carolina will be one of their spring visits:
“South Carolina has been great in this process, and we’re excited to check it out.”
The Gamecocks are pulling out all the stops as they aim to bring in top talent like Brian Harris and Brady Smigiel, solidifying their presence in the competitive world of SEC recruiting. Stay tuned for more updates!
