South Carolina continues to reshape its roster with an eye toward long term improvement, and the latest addition reflects a clear emphasis on rebuilding offensive production after a challenging season. Following a year marked by inconsistency, limited scoring output, and sweeping changes on the coaching staff, the Gamecocks have been aggressive in the transfer portal to inject both talent and depth into key positions. Running back, in particular, has been an area of focus as the program looks to establish a more reliable ground game and reduce pressure on the passing attack heading into the next campaign.
That effort took another step forward Sunday when former Penn State running back Jabree Coleman reportedly committed to South Carolina. According to On3, Coleman selected the Gamecocks over other Power Five options in Auburn and West Virginia. A major factor in his decision was the opportunity to reunite with Stan Drayton, a former Penn State assistant who coached Coleman during his true freshman season. Although Coleman did not see game action for the Nittany Lions in 2025, the move gives him a fresh start in a familiar coaching environment, and he will arrive in Columbia with four full seasons of eligibility still available.
Coleman becomes the second running back addition for South Carolina during this transfer cycle, joining Sam Dixon, who recently announced his decision to transfer from Ohio State. Together, the two newcomers significantly bolster a running back room that is being reshaped for the future.
At 6 feet tall and 209 pounds, Coleman brings an impressive high school résumé. He was a standout at Imhotep Charter in Pennsylvania, where he rushed for 1,135 yards and 15 touchdowns during his senior season in 2024. He also showed versatility as a receiver, adding 13 catches for 122 yards and another score. The year prior, Coleman posted even more eye catching numbers, piling up 1,610 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns. His production earned him a ranking as the No. 35 running back in the 2025 class according to the 247Sports Composite.
Looking ahead to 2026, South Carolina now carries five scholarship running backs on the roster, including Coleman and returning players Matt Fuller, Jawarn Howell, and Isaiah Augustave. The added depth comes at a crucial time for the Gamecocks, who finished 4 and 8 in 2025 and struggled mightily on offense. Those struggles ultimately led head coach Shane Beamer to part ways with offensive coordinator Mike Shula, signaling a broader reset that Coleman now joins as part of the solution.
