The race for 2026 five-star quarterback Jared Curtis has taken a dramatic turn, with the elite prospect announcing his final two schools: Georgia and Oregon. This decision effectively eliminates South Carolina from contention.
Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) broke the news on Twitter (February 22, 2025), stating, “BREAKING: Five-Star QB Jared Curtis is down to 2️⃣ Schools… The Nation’s No. 1 QB has canceled his Official Visits to Auburn and South Carolina. He will only be taking OVs to Georgia and Oregon.” Curtis confirmed this himself, signaling that a visit to Columbia, previously planned for late June, is off the table.
This is undoubtedly a setback for Shane Beamer and the Gamecocks. Curtis is not just any recruit; he’s the No. 1 quarterback and the No. 2 overall player in the 2026 class. Missing out on such a highly touted prospect is a blow.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom for South Carolina. Their 2026 recruiting class is already showing promise, with five current commitments. Leading the pack is four-star safety J’Zavien Currence, who has been committed to the Gamecocks since October 2024. With plenty of time left before signing day, Beamer and his staff still have ample opportunity to build a strong and impressive recruiting class.
