South Carolina football: Keenan Nelson releases top 10 schools

South Carolina football makes the cut for 4-star CB Keenan Nelson.

Shane Beamer and the South Carolina coaching staff have been making waves on the recruiting trail, landing in the top group for a number of talented prospects over the last month. On Sunday, Beamer and Co. added another name to that list, with four-star cornerback Keenan Nelson, Jr naming the Gamecocks as one of his top 10 schools.

South Carolina made the cut for the elite defender, alongside Notre Dame, Pittsburgh, Maryland, Wisconsin, Penn State, Tennessee, West Virginia, Virginia Tech, and Rutgers. Home state programs Penn State and Pittsburgh could hold an early advantage for the Philadelphia native, though Nelson has been playing his recruitment pretty close to the vest. He has yet to set a commitment date.

Nelson is considered to be the 107th best player in the country, according to 247 Sports, as well as the nation’s 12th best cornerback. National recruiting analyst Brian Dohn had this to say about Nelson’s outlook at the next level.

"Draft projection: Rounds 2-3Great frame with length. Has ability to be dominant cornerback. Loose hips and changes direction with ease. Excellent timing and technique. Quick, smooth feet. Comfortable in backpedal and transitions well to turn and run with receiver. Stays tight on hip out of breaks. Can jam and re-route. Good ball skills. Does not panic. Excels against elite competition. Runs well and possesses closing speed. Can set edge in running game. Good tackler in space. Has to continue to develop strength. Must not get complacent. Multi-year starter at Top 10 program. Day 2 NFL draft potential."

The Gamecocks are in desperate need of secondary help after losing its top three cornerbacks from the 2020 roster, meaning they could offer Nelson an opportunity for immediate playing time in the SEC. Should South Carolina land a commitment from the Keystone State prospect, it would be a huge step forward for the future of the defensive backfield.