The NFL Draft could be a major stage for several South Carolina Gamecocks next spring, as Shane Beamer’s roster features both underclassmen and seniors with the potential to take their talents to the professional level.
Pro Football Focus (PFF) recently released its latest NFL Draft Big Board, and five Gamecocks are listed as prospects to watch.
At the top is quarterback LaNorris Sellers, ranked 49th overall—putting him in solid second-round territory. While many around the NFL view Sellers as a first-round talent, his draft stock is complicated by inconsistencies in his game and in South Carolina’s offensive system. Sellers still has two years of eligibility remaining, and recent reports suggest he’s leaning toward returning to USC rather than entering the draft.
Defensive back Jalon Kilgore follows at No. 143, which would translate to an early fifth-round pick. Kilgore, a third-year player with no redshirt season, has just one year of college eligibility left after 2025. NFL scouts are intrigued by his combination of size, athleticism, and versatility. “Some see him at safety, others at corner, and some think a nickel role, like he plays at South Carolina, would suit him best,” analysts say.
Also projected in the fifth round is wide receiver Nyck Harbor at No. 172. Harbor has been one of the most polarizing receiver prospects in college football, thanks to his rare mix of elite size (6-5) and top-end speed. Over the past two years, he’s improved his hands and route running, making him an intriguing option for the NFL. Harbor retains one more year of college eligibility after this season.
Offensive lineman Tree Babalade is next at No. 292, outside of the standard seven-round draft range, but still a name to watch. The redshirt sophomore has emerged as South Carolina’s top lineman following Cason Henry’s season-ending injury. While Babalade isn’t yet a finished product, he has two years of eligibility remaining to continue developing his game.
Finally, senior defensive back DQ Smith comes in at No. 370, also outside the seven-round range. Smith, primarily a safety, has experience at nickel and playing in the box. A four-year starter at Carolina, he earned Freshman All-American honors in 2022 and could be a strong candidate for an undrafted free agent opportunity.
Beyond the PFF rankings, other Gamecocks have drawn NFL Draft buzz from various outlets. Cornerback Brandon Cisse, defensive tackles Nick Barrett and Gabe Brownlow-Dindy, as well as defensive tackle Monkell Goodwine, cornerbacks Vicari Swain and Judge Collier, running back Rahsul Faison, and edge rushers Bryan Thomas Jr. and JT Geer have all been noted by scouts at different points this season.
The 2025 NFL Draft is set to take place from April 23rd to 25th in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With several South Carolina players on the radar, it promises to be an exciting event for Gamecocks fans.
