South Carolina Gamecocks 2015 Position Preview: Tight End

Mandatory Credit: Rob Foldy-USA TODAY Sports

Tight end is another position that the South Carolina Gamecocks have been able to find and sustain success over the past few years. Players like Jared Cook, Weslye Saunders, Justice Cunningham, and Rory “Busta” Anderson have been successful and landed jobs in the NFL. Last season the Gamecocks used the depth and duo of Busta Anderson and Jerell Adams to utilize two tight end formations.

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This season Jerell Adams returns to lead the Gamecocks with a lot of new faces. The Gamecocks know what they have in Adams, but there are some questions marks when looking past him. One name to watch is Jacob August, a walk-on who has been impressive in camp. Another familiar name is Clayton Stadnik who was once a starting center for the Gamecocks.

One of the new recruits to watch is Kyle Markway who has been solid since stepping on campus, yet still has a lot to learn. There are a few other names out there for Gamecock fans to know as the season progresses. Looking at this group it is easy to see that it is not as deep as it has been in recent years on paper.

Don’t let the stats deceive you. The coaching staff is excited to see what this group can do, and they expect this group to be able to compete at a similar level as in the past. The tight ends must be counted on to protect Connor Mitch this season while also being able to make some big plays in the passing game.

Next: Jerell Adams