South Carolina Commit Darius Gray Earns Virginia Prep Co-Player of the Year Honors — Again
South Carolina football’s top 2026 commitment, Darius Gray, continues to prove why he’s one of the nation’s premier prospects. The elite lineman was recently named Virginia’s co-Player of the Year at the Prep League level, marking the second consecutive year he’s earned the honor.
Gray, who stands 6-foot-2½ and weighs 285 pounds, has solidified his reputation as one of the top two-way players in the state. In addition to his football accolades, he was also recognized as the co-Player of the Year in basketball, showcasing his rare athletic versatility.
A star for St. Christopher’s School (Richmond, Va.), Gray dominates on both sides of the line for the Saints, playing as both an offensive and defensive lineman. His impact was instrumental in leading St. Christopher’s to a share of the Virginia Prep League championship this season. Impressively, this marks Gray’s fourth straight year earning All-League recognition.
“He’s just one of those guys who can take over a game — whether it’s in the trenches or on the court,” said one local coach. “His work ethic and leadership set the tone for everyone around him.”
Elite Ranking and Commitment to South Carolina
Nationally, Gray holds elite status in recruiting circles. He is ranked as the No. 1 interior offensive lineman in the Rivals Industry Rankings and sits at No. 35 overall among all players in the 2026 class. Within his home state, he’s listed as the No. 2 prospect in Virginia.
Despite recent staff turnover in Columbia — including changes at offensive line coach and offensive coordinator — Gray remains fully committed to the Gamecocks. He announced his commitment to South Carolina in August, choosing Shane Beamer’s program over numerous national powers, including LSU.
“From the beginning, South Carolina just felt like home,” Gray said when he committed. “The coaches believe in me, and I believe in what they’re building.”
Power and Versatility in the Trenches
While he projects as an interior lineman at the college level, Gray’s experience playing offensive tackle in high school gives him added flexibility. His combination of brute strength, elite footwork, and balance allows him to succeed across multiple positions along the offensive front.
Recruiting analysts describe him as an athlete with “ridiculous strength and mobility for his size,” traits that could make him an immediate impact player once he arrives in Columbia.
Dynamic Duo for the Gamecocks
Gray headlines a strong 2026 South Carolina recruiting class that also includes Zyon Guiles, a fellow offensive lineman from South Carolina. The two currently rank as the No. 1 and No. 2 interior linemen in the Rivals300, both holding four-star ratings, while Gray has earned a five-star nod from another major recruiting service.
With Gray’s continued dominance on the field — and his unwavering loyalty to the Gamecocks — South Carolina’s offensive line future looks brighter than ever.
