South Carolina continues to aggressively reshape its roster through the transfer portal, adding yet another key piece to its rebuild up front. On3 Sports reported that Missouri State offensive lineman has committed to the Gamecocks, giving the program its 25th transfer addition of the offseason.
The Gamecocks faced stiff competition for top stars services, fending off several notable suitors — including Alabama, which hosted the veteran lineman for an official visit over the weekend. Ultimately, South Carolina won out, landing a player who immediately bolsters an offensive line group that was a major point of emphasis this cycle.
Nnabugwu becomes the eighth offensive lineman to join South Carolina via the portal, a clear signal that the coaching staff is intent on overhauling a unit that struggled mightily in 2025. The Gamecocks surrendered an SEC-high 43 sacks last season, making protection and line stability one of the top priorities heading into the new year.
A 6-foot-3, 305-pound Baltimore native, Nnabugwu brings both size and versatility. During the 2025 season at Missouri State, he opened the year as the Bears’ starting left guard, starting the first three games before sliding out to left tackle, where he held down the position for the final nine contests. That flexibility only adds to his value as South Carolina looks to find the best possible combination up front.
According to Pro Football Focus, Nnabugwu was one of Missouri State’s most reliable pass protectors. He earned a 78.7 pass-blocking grade, allowing just three sacks and four quarterback hits over the course of the season — impressive production, particularly for a player adjusting to a position change midyear. His steady presence helped Missouri State enjoy a successful transition to the FBS level.
The Bears finished 7–6 overall and 5–3 in Conference USA, earning a bowl appearance in what was their first season competing at the FBS level. Missouri State’s year also included significant change off the field, as head coach Ryan Beard departed to take the head coaching job at Coastal Carolina, replacing Tim Beck.
Before arriving at Missouri State, Nnabugwu began his collegiate career at Delaware State in 2023. After redshirting his first season, he appeared in all 12 games the following year as a redshirt sophomore, laying the foundation for his breakout opportunity with the Bears.
Nnabugwu will enroll at South Carolina with two seasons of eligibility remaining, giving the Gamecocks both immediate help and short-term continuity along the offensive line.
With his commitment, South Carolina’s 2026 transfer portal class now features a deep and diverse group of additions across the roster, including:
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QB: Lucian Anderson III (Bowling Green State)
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RB: Sam Williams-Dixon (Ohio State), Jabree Coleman (Penn State), Christian Clark (Texas)
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WR: Jayden Gibson (Oklahoma), Nitro Tuggle (Purdue), Charly Mullaly (Holy Cross), DJ Black (UCF)
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TE: Max Drag (UCF)
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OL: Dayne Arnett (Ferris State), Carter Miller (UCF), Jacarrius Peak (NC State), Emmanuel Poku (East Carolina), Hank Purvis (Purdue), Seth Smith (Northern Arizona), Armando Nieves (New Mexico State), Ebubedike Nnabugwu (Missouri State)
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K: Upton Bellenfant (Texas Tech)
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LS: Emmet Rhoades (Western Carolina)
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DL: Jordan Thomas (Georgia), Tomiwa Durojaiye (Illinois), Kelby Collins (Alabama)
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EDGE: Drew Collins (Arkansas State), Caleb Herring (Tennessee)
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DB: Quay’Sheed Scott (Kentucky)
With each portal addition, South Carolina continues to signal that it’s all-in on fixing its biggest weaknesses — and Nnabugwu’s commitment may prove to be one of the most important moves of the offseason as the Gamecocks look to protect their quarterback and reset the tone in the trenches.