South Carolina Closing in on Top In-State Prospect Tamarion Watkins
South Carolina’s recruiting efforts are heating up, and one of the biggest targets in the 2026 class is none other than Northwestern High School standout, Tamarion Watkins. The 6’4”, 201-pound safety is making waves as one of the top prospects in the Palmetto State, and the Gamecocks are pushing hard to land him.
Watkins’ size and physicality have turned heads across the country. Georgia sees his potential as a linebacker, while South Carolina defensive backs coach Torrian Gray envisions him as a long, rangy presence in the secondary. Recruiting analysts, including On3, 247Sports, ESPN, and Rivals, all list him as a safety.
Watkins Climbs the Rankings
The latest recruiting updates for the 2026 class have boosted Watkins’ stock significantly. He’s now a four-star prospect in the On3 Industry Rankings, which compile ratings from multiple sources. His national ranking has jumped to No. 312 overall, while he’s the No. 7 player in South Carolina and the No. 26 safety in the country.
Rivals is particularly high on Watkins, ranking him at No. 125 nationally and labeling him the top player in South Carolina.
Gamecocks in a Strong Position
According to GamecockCentral’s Chris Clark, South Carolina is in a great position to land Watkins, despite stiff competition from powerhouse programs. Clark recently included Watkins on his list of players close to receiving On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine (RPM) picks in favor of the Gamecocks.
Watkins’ recruitment remains competitive, but South Carolina’s connections in Rock Hill give them an advantage.
Building a Strong 2026 Class
So far, South Carolina’s 2026 recruiting class ranks 14th nationally and already includes five commitments:
- J’Zavien Currence – 4-star safety (Rock Hill, SC)
- Jamel Howse – 4-star tight end
- Keenan Britt – 4-star linebacker/EDGE
- Peyton Dyer – 3-star defensive back
- Anthony Baxter – 3-star offensive lineman (Rock Hill, SC)
With Currence and Baxter already in the fold, the Gamecocks hope Watkins will be the next Rock Hill talent to join the class of 2026. If they succeed, South Carolina’s secondary could be in for a major boost in the years ahead.
Stay tuned as the Gamecocks continue their pursuit of one of South Carolina’s best defensive prospects.
