Gamecocks Dominate NFL Combine Invites with Record-Breaking Class
The 2025 NFL Combine is just around the corner, kicking off later this month in Indianapolis, and the official invite list is out. A staggering 11 South Carolina players have earned a spot, more than doubling the Gamecocks’ invite total in any year since 2013.
For perspective, the most Gamecocks ever selected in a single NFL Draft came in 1954, when nine players were taken in what was then a 30-round format. This year’s combine, running from Feb. 24 through March 3, will be covered extensively on NFL Network and NFL+.
Gamecocks Headliners in Indianapolis
Leading the pack is Raheim “Rocket” Sanders, the dynamic running back who rushed for 881 yards and 11 touchdowns in his lone season at South Carolina. His efforts earned him the 2024 Comeback Player of the Year Award, recognized by both College Sports Communicators and The Associated Press.
Joining him is star defensive back Nick Emmanwori, a former All-American who racked up 244 tackles, 17 pass deflections, and six interceptions during his Gamecock career.
Notable Absence
Surprisingly, Kai Kroeger, South Carolina’s All-American punter, did not make the official invite list, despite earlier reports suggesting he had received an invitation.
Full List of Gamecocks at the NFL Combine:
- Raheim “Rocket” Sanders
- Joshua Simon
- Torricelli Simpkins III
- Tonka Hemingway
- DeAndre Jules
- Kyle Kennard
- T.J. Sanders
- Demetrius Knight Jr.
- Bam Martin-Scott
- Nick Emmanwori
- O’Donnell Fortune
Clemson Representation
The Tigers are sending six players to the combine, including standout running back Phil Mafah and linebacker Barrett Carter.
Full List of Clemson Invitees:
- Phil Mafah
- Jake Briningstool
- Marcus Tate
- Payton Page
- Barrett Carter
- RJ Mixon
With 17 players from South Carolina’s two powerhouse programs headed to Indianapolis, expect plenty of buzz around the Palmetto State’s talent as the NFL Draft approaches.
