Ben Burress: The NFL-Minded Strategist Shane Beamer is Counting On to Elevate South Carolina’s Tight Ends and Offensive Line
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer continues to make calculated moves to strengthen his coaching staff, and his latest adjustment may be one of the most pivotal this season. Following the staff reshuffle that promoted Shawn Elliott back to offensive line coach, Ben Burress — previously the team’s pass game specialist — has been elevated to serve as the tight ends coach for the remainder of the season.
The decision comes as part of Beamer’s efforts to bolster the Gamecocks’ offensive front and maximize production from a key position group that plays a crucial role in both blocking and passing efficiency.
Who is Ben Burress?
A Sumter, South Carolina native and 2012 University of South Carolina graduate, Ben Burress brings a blend of analytical expertise, professional experience, and homegrown passion to Columbia. Before joining the Gamecocks’ staff in January, Burress spent a decade in the NFL, working with some of football’s most respected organizations — including the Carolina Panthers, Arizona Cardinals, and New York Giants.
His most recent tenure with the Giants saw him serve as a defensive assistant after three seasons as the team’s football data and innovation research analyst. His analytical approach to the game earned him recognition as one of the most detail-oriented young minds in football operations. Burress began his NFL career in 2014 with the Panthers, assisting offensive coaches — including Mike Shula, now South Carolina’s offensive coordinator — and handling day-to-day operations such as film breakdowns, scouting reports, and practice coordination.
During his four seasons in Carolina, Burress worked closely with Shula and quarterback Cam Newton during one of the franchise’s most dynamic offensive eras, which included a Super Bowl 50 appearance. He later spent a year as assistant to the head coach with the Arizona Cardinals, where he developed a deeper understanding of offensive structure and player development.
Coaching Journey and Expertise
Before his NFL career, Burress built his foundation at Furman University, serving as assistant director of football operations and video coordinator after beginning as an intern. His early roles gave him a 360-degree understanding of program management, analytics, and on-field coordination — skills that now translate seamlessly into his hybrid coaching responsibilities at South Carolina.
Beamer described Burress as a “great addition to our staff” and praised his flexibility and experience across multiple facets of football.
“Ben has experience. He’s been with the Carolina Panthers, has been with the New York Giants. He’s been a great addition to our staff,” Beamer said. “He’s going to take a more active role with the tight ends, and his familiarity with the offense will help us transition smoothly.”
Working with Shawn Elliott: A Synergistic Duo
The combination of Ben Burress and Shawn Elliott could prove transformative for South Carolina’s offense. Elliott, known for his fiery leadership and deep understanding of offensive line play, returns to a position he previously coached from 2010 to 2016, a span that included the Gamecocks’ most successful years under Steve Spurrier.
Burress’ analytical precision and NFL background in pass-game design complement Elliott’s trench experience. Together, they’ll aim to develop tighter cohesion between the offensive line and tight ends, particularly in run-blocking schemes and protection assignments.
Beamer emphasized that the overlap between both units would be key moving forward:
“The tight ends and offensive line work together so well from a run game standpoint and even in protection,” Beamer noted. “There’ll be times where they can meet together, and Ben will take a more active role with them.”
Looking Ahead
Burress’ appointment signals a continued shift toward modern, data-driven football within Beamer’s system. His experience with NFL analytics and player development brings a fresh edge to a Gamecocks offense that has struggled with consistency and depth up front.
Working under Mike Shula once again, Burress is expected to refine tight end play in both the blocking and passing game, ensuring players like Brady Hunt and Jordan Dingle can flourish in multiple roles.
In essence, Shane Beamer’s move isn’t just a staff adjustment — it’s a statement of intent. By combining Elliott’s grit with Burress’ innovation, South Carolina is banking on a balanced blend of experience, analytics, and adaptability to restore dominance in the trenches and give the Gamecocks a much-needed offensive spark.
“It’s about getting the right people in the right places,” Beamer said. “Ben and Shawn working together gives us that.”
