Gamecocks Shine at NFL Combine with Impressive Performances
The NFL Combine is in full swing, and South Carolina football fans have plenty to keep an eye on. With 11 Gamecocks receiving invitations—plus an additional participant in the specialist showcase—South Carolina is well-represented in Indianapolis.
Throughout the week, players will undergo testing and measurements, with several expected to boost their NFL Draft stock. Below are the latest results from the NFL Combine
Gamecocks Making Waves in Indianapolis
Nick Emmanwori – A First-Round Lock?
Nick Emmanwori delivered one of the most dominant performances in NFL Combine history. The South Carolina All-American led all players in broad jump (11-6) and vertical jump (43 inches), ran an elite 4.38-second 40-yard dash, and topped all safeties in the bench press (20 reps). According to Kent Platte’s Relative Athletic Score, Emmanwori would be a 10-out-of-10 athlete at multiple positions, making him a near-lock for the first round.
TJ Sanders – A Versatile Defensive Lineman
TJ Sanders impressed with his size and versatility, weighing in at 297 pounds—heavier than many expected. His 6-4 frame and 33-inch arms allow him to shift outside as needed, adding positional flexibility that NFL teams covet.
Kyle Kennard – Strength on Display
Kyle Kennard didn’t complete many drills but still showcased his raw power, finishing top-10 in the bench press among EDGE rushers. His draft stock remains high, thanks to his Nagurski Trophy-winning season and All-American performance.
Demetrius Knight – Speed and Agility Stand Out
Demetrius Knight turned heads with his athleticism. His 4.58-second 40-yard dash and broad jump ranked top-10 among linebackers, while his 20-yard shuttle and 3-cone drill were top-3. He also recorded a blazing 22.76 mph top sprint speed, the fastest among linebackers.
Rocket Sanders – Elite Speed for a Bigger Back
Despite his 6-0, 217-pound frame, Rocket Sanders clocked an explosive 4.46-second 40-yard dash and hit an elite top speed of 23.55 mph, the fastest among all running backs during the 40-yard sprint trials.
O’Donnell Fortune – Solid but Unspectacular
O’Donnell Fortune didn’t significantly move the needle with his testing but measured in at 6-1 with 31.5-inch arms, which should help his draft stock. He also performed well in on-field drills.
Tonka Hemingway – One of the Best on the D-Line
Tonka Hemingway was one of the most impressive defensive linemen at the combine, earning “great” and “elite” ratings in explosion and agility drills. Despite his athleticism, he was one of the lightest defensive tackles at just 284 pounds.
Josh Simon – A Big Winner Among Tight Ends
Josh Simon had a fantastic combine, finishing second among all tight ends in the 40-yard dash (4.65), vertical (38 inches), and broad jump (10-4). His size (6-4, 239 lbs) only boosts his NFL appeal.
Torricelli Simpkins – Strong in Drills, Not in Speed
While Torricelli Simpkins didn’t post standout speed numbers (5.45-second 40-yard dash), he excelled in positional drills and delivered some of the best explosion metrics (vertical/broad jump) among non-tackle offensive linemen.
DeAndre Jules – Big Body on the Line
DeAndre Jules didn’t participate in athletic testing but weighed in at 316 pounds, ranking as the 14th-heaviest defensive lineman at the NFL Combine.
Bam Martin-Scott – Smooth and Explosive
Bam Martin-Scott had a strong showing, posting a 4.63-second 40-yard dash (11th among linebackers) and excelling in the 3-cone drill and 20-yard shuttle. His positional drills were even better, showcasing his fluid movement and ability to change direction seamlessly.
Kai Kroeger – The Best Punter at the Showcase?
Kai Kroeger put on a show at the specialist showcase, with sources reporting that his best punts reached a 5.4-second hang time—well above the NFL average and the best at the event.
Final Takeaway
The South Carolina Gamecocks made a huge impact at the NFL Combine, with players like Nick Emmanwori, Josh Simon, Rocket Sanders, and Demetrius Knight skyrocketing their draft stock. As the draft approaches, expect several Gamecocks to hear their names called early.
