Torricelli Simpkins Shines at NFL Combine, Drops Key Insight on O-Line Success
South Carolina football captain Torricelli Simpkins stood alone as the Gamecocks’ sole offensive lineman at the NFL Combine this week. While fellow seniors Vershon Lee and Kamaar Bell also have their eyes on the league, it was Simpkins who carried the torch for USC’s offensive front in Indianapolis.
And he made the most of it.
Simpkins Impresses in Indianapolis
With strong interviews and solid testing numbers, Simpkins turned heads at the combine. He also measured in bigger than expected, coming in at 6-foot-4.5 and 312 pounds—a frame that should serve him well at the next level.
When asked about the most important trait for offensive linemen—beyond the obvious factors like size and blocking ability—Simpkins had a well-thought-out response.
“I want to say physicality so bad… but I want to say communication,” Simpkins admitted. “The way you communicate with your offensive line, that’s going to lead you a whole lot. It’s going to help you so much. The way y’all talk to each other, and making sure everyone is on their assignment, that’s the best thing possible for [an offensive lineman].”
Of course, he couldn’t resist sneaking in the physicality factor, too.
“Obviously, that and being physical, too. I’ve got to say physical.”
Lessons from the 2024 Season
Simpkins’ answer holds weight, especially after South Carolina’s rocky 2024 season. Early in the year, the Gamecocks struggled with both physicality and communication up front, leading to far too many unblocked pass rushers getting free shots at the quarterback.
While Simpkins hopes to take his talents to the NFL, his words serve as a lesson for the next wave of Gamecock linemen—success in the trenches isn’t just about brute strength, but also clear communication and trust.
Simpkins made his mark in Indianapolis—now, the next step is hearing his name called on draft day.
