South Carolina football: Gamecocks host handful of visitors over weekend

South Carolina football is kicking off recruiting season.

The South Carolina football staff kicked off its recruiting season this past weekend, holding its first Summer camp of the year. Recruiting bans have now been lifted, and the NCAA has allowed players to visit campuses in person. Head coach Shane Beamer is working to bring talent to South Carolina and show how attractive a place it can be for incoming prospects.

Over the weekend, the Gamecocks had a trio of high-profile visitors, one of whom may be the staff’s top target for the ’22 class.

Dutch Fork wideout Antonio Williams is rated as a four-star player, and the fourth-best player in the state of South Carolina, according to 24/7 Sports. He’s considered a top 200 prospect in the nation, and plays at a huge position of need for the Gamecocks.

In his last high school season, the junior amassed over 1,500 yards in ten games, reaching pay dirt on ten occasions. The Gamecocks can offer immediate playing time, close proximity to home, and a chance to build a foundation for the future of the program. Here’s what he had to say about the visit.

"“I had a great time. We toured the whole campus, met all the coaches. Me and my family ate lunch with head coach Shane Beamer and coach Justin Stepp.”"

Williams has been considered a heavy lean for the Gamecocks thus far.

Another ’22 pass catcher was on campus over the weekend, too, as Jayden Gibson made a stop in Columbia on Sunday. Gibson is considered a top 150 prospect according to Rivals, and while it may be hard to beat out the in-state schools (the Sunshine State native holds offers from Florida, FSU, and Miami), the Gamecocks have to feel good about getting an in-person visit.

Also on campus was ’23 quarterback prospect Dylan Lonergan, the fourth-best signal caller in the class. Considered a top 50 player, he holds offers from Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Georgia, LSU, Miami, UNC, Penn State, Tennessee, and more. What could make the Gamecocks a bit more intriguing to the passer is the fact that he plans to play both football and baseball at the next level. South Carolina provides an opportunity to play for one of the most notable baseball programs in the nation, and it could have an influence on his commitment decision.

Finally, defensive lineman Hevin Brown-Shuler made an appearance on campus in Columbia. While he’s just finishing up his sophomore season at Pace Academy in Atlanta, he already holds offers from Florida State, Georgia, Penn State, Tennessee, and Southern Cal.

South Carolina could have an inside path to landing an eventual commitment, as he’s currently being mentored by former Gamecock and NY Giant Corey Miller.

Shane Beamer will continue to welcome visitors this week, as another talented group of prospects is expected to be in Columbia.