The South Carolina Gamecocks made a major move in the transfer portal Thursday, adding a proven SEC pass-rusher to bolster their defensive line. The addition gives South Carolina immediate depth and experience on the edge, signaling the program’s commitment to strengthening its front seven ahead of the 2026 season. Coaches and analysts alike see the move as a potential game-changer for the Gamecocks’ defensive schemes.
The new addition joins a Gamecocks defensive line that has already seen several transfers this offseason, including players from Illinois, Georgia, Alabama, and Arkansas State. South Carolina has been aggressive in the portal, targeting athletes with size, speed, and SEC experience to create a deeper, more versatile rotation capable of pressuring quarterbacks and stopping the run.
The standout signing is Caleb Herring, the 6-foot-5, 245-pound former Tennessee edge rusher. Herring appeared in 36 career games for the Volunteers and posted 25 tackles, eight tackles for loss, five sacks, and multiple quarterback hurries. His junior season in 2025 was particularly impressive, highlighted by a 2.5-tackle-for-loss, 1.5-sack performance against Georgia. Analysts project that Herring’s combination of size and SEC-tested experience will make him an immediate contributor in Columbia.
With Herring in the fold, the Gamecocks’ defensive line now features a mix of veteran transfers and returning players, creating a rotation capable of pressuring offenses across the conference. Head coach Shane Beamer and his staff will rely on the new edge rusher to provide both leadership and impact plays, positioning South Carolina as a tougher opponent on defense in the coming season.