Despite the recent shake-up on offense following the firing of offensive coordinator Mike Shula, South Carolina quarterback commit Landon Duckworth is staying loyal to the Gamecocks.
The Jackson (Ala.) native and four-star prospect told On3’s Hayes Fawcett on Wednesday night that he’s putting an end to his recruitment process.
“I feel like this is where I belong,” Duckworth said.
Duckworth, a Class of 2026 standout, originally chose South Carolina in July over major programs such as Auburn, Ole Miss, Florida State, Georgia, Texas A&M, Florida, Oregon, North Carolina, and Arkansas. This marks the second time he’s committed to the Gamecocks, reaffirming his decision even as the team transitions offensively.
In September, Duckworth took a visit to LSU, which later extended an offer. However, the trip didn’t lead to a flip, and with LSU now in the midst of a coaching search, his commitment to Shane Beamer’s program appears stronger than ever.
Standing 6-foot-3 and 190 pounds, Duckworth is ranked as the No. 87 overall recruit, No. 8 quarterback, and No. 5 prospect in Alabama according to the Rivals Industry Ranking.
This season, Duckworth has showcased his dual-threat ability, completing 93 of 153 passes for 1,583 yards and 15 touchdowns, while rushing for 267 yards and six more scores on 42 carries. As a junior, he threw for 3,109 yards and 34 touchdowns, adding 631 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns in 14 games.
Recruiting analyst Charles Power of On3 praised Duckworth’s rapid development and athletic upside.
“Duckworth is one of the toolsier quarterbacks on the ground in Los Angeles,” Power noted. “He’s got a big frame with ample room to fill out. He’s the most explosive athlete of the group. The improvements he’s made as a passer this offseason really stand out.”
Power added that Duckworth’s mechanics have become “more aligned and in sync,” which has boosted his accuracy and throwing velocity.
Although Mike Shula played a key role in Duckworth’s recruitment, Shane Beamer’s leadership and program vision have been enough to keep the young quarterback locked in. With the offensive coordinator position expected to be filled after the season, Duckworth’s continued commitment signals his confidence in South Carolina’s direction.
In a time of uncertainty, Landon Duckworth’s loyalty is a major win for the Gamecocks — and a promising sign for the team’s offensive future.
