South Carolina Lands Three Standout Transfers on CBS’ Top 100 Impact Players List
The South Carolina Gamecocks have been making serious moves in the transfer portal, and the results are already turning heads. In CBS Sports’ recently released Top 100 Impact Transfers list, three Gamecocks earned spots among the most influential players set to make waves in college football next season.
Highlighted among the nation’s best were running back Rahsul Faison, defensive lineman Jaylen Brown, and cornerback Brandon Cisse—a trio expected to bring immediate firepower to Shane Beamer’s squad in 2025.
Rahsul Faison – No. 47 on CBS’ List
Leading the Gamecocks’ transfer class in CBS’ rankings is Rahsul Faison, the electric running back out of Utah State. Coming in at No. 47, Faison is fresh off a 1,200-yard rushing season, averaging an impressive 5.7 yards per carry.
CBS analyst Cooper Petagna praised Faison’s skill set, calling him a dynamic and elusive playmaker:
“Faison joins South Carolina after accounting for more than 1,200 rushing yards and 5.7 yards per attempt last season at Utah State,” Petagna wrote. “Displaying a poetic running style, Faison’s vision, patience, and change of speed make him one of the most dynamic and potentially impactful transfer portal prospects this cycle. If you’re looking for a breakout prospect next year, circle Faison.”
With Raheim “Rocket” Sanders having departed, Faison is expected to be a game-changer in the Gamecocks’ backfield.
Jaylen Brown – No. 69 on CBS’ List
Next up is Jaylen Brown, a promising defensive lineman who arrives from Missouri. Ranked No. 69 on CBS’ list, Brown didn’t see significant playing time as a freshman, but his upside is undeniable.
With Tonka Hemingway and TJ Sanders moving on, Brown will have an opportunity to step into a key role on South Carolina’s defensive front. Petagna highlighted his size and athleticism as major assets:
“A former Top247 prospect, Brown recorded just fewer than 40 snaps in his freshman year at Missouri,” Petagna wrote. “Hovering around 6-foot-6 and 250 pounds, the flashes of quickness and strength make for an interesting partnership between a former highly touted prospect and a South Carolina program that continues to churn out edge defenders at an extremely high rate.”
If Brown can unlock his full potential, he could be a force for South Carolina in the trenches.
Brandon Cisse – No. 73 on CBS’ List
Rounding out South Carolina’s presence on CBS’ impact list is cornerback Brandon Cisse, who arrives from NC State. Ranked No. 73, Cisse brings versatility to the Gamecocks’ secondary, an area where defensive coordinator Clayton White is looking to add depth.
Petagna emphasized Cisse’s ability to play multiple positions in the secondary:
“A versatile secondary defender, Cisse displays the ability to operate outside at both corner spots in addition to playing inside as a slot defender,” Petagna noted. “Active in man-to-man coverage and run support, the rising junior’s positional flexibility should add plenty of value to an already aggressive South Carolina secondary.”
With the Gamecocks known for their physical and aggressive defensive play, Cisse’s skill set could make him an instant contributor in Columbia.
South Carolina’s Transfer Strategy Paying Off
As college football evolves, securing top talent through the transfer portal is just as crucial as high school recruiting. Shane Beamer and his staff have done a masterful job targeting high-upside players who can contribute right away, and the inclusion of three Gamecocks on CBS’ Top 100 Impact Players list is proof that their strategy is working.
With Rahsul Faison electrifying the offense, Jaylen Brown strengthening the defensive line, and Brandon Cisse fortifying the secondary, South Carolina has positioned itself for an exciting 2025 season. Keep an eye on these names—they could be game-changers in Columbia.
