South Carolina continues to be one of the most aggressive teams this offseason, and the Gamecocks are clearly making offensive line improvement a top priority. After enduring a 2025 season in which quarterback pressure became a weekly issue, head coach Shane Beamer and his staff have moved quickly to reshape the trenches with experienced, college-ready talent. That strategy paid off again Monday night, as South Carolina landed another key portal addition, this time from a rising program that just made the jump to the FBS level.
According to On3 Sports, Missouri State offensive lineman has committed to South Carolina, choosing the Gamecocks over several high-profile suitors. Alabama was heavily involved in his recruitment and hosted him on a visit over the weekend, but South Carolina ultimately won the battle for his signature. His commitment marks the eighth offensive lineman the Gamecocks have added via the transfer portal, underscoring just how serious the program is about overhauling an offensive line that surrendered an SEC-worst 43 sacks during the 2025 season.
Ebubedike Nnabugwu brings both size and versatility to Columbia. The 6-foot-3, 305-pound Baltimore native opened last season as Missouri State’s starting left guard for the first three games before sliding out to left tackle, where he started the final nine contests. That positional flexibility adds immediate value to South Carolina’s depth chart, especially as the coaching staff searches for the best combination up front.
His on-field production backs up the interest he generated. Pro Football Focus graded Nnabugwu at 78.7 in pass protection last season, as he allowed only three sacks and four quarterback hits across the year. He played a key role in Missouri State’s successful first FBS campaign, helping the Bears finish 7-6 overall and 5-3 in Conference USA, earning a bowl appearance in their debut season at the level.
Nnabugwu began his college career at Delaware State in 2023, redshirting his first year before appearing in all 12 games as a redshirt sophomore. Missouri State experienced a coaching change this offseason, with former head coach Ryan Beard leaving for Coastal Carolina, a shift that helped open the door for Nnabugwu’s move. He will arrive at South Carolina with two seasons of eligibility remaining, giving the Gamecocks a proven, experienced lineman to anchor their rebuilt front.