South Carolina Football: Gamecock legend makes instant impact in XFL

One of the most beloved South Carolina football players ever is the one-of-a-kind DJ Swearinger. Swearinger recently signed a deal to join the XFL’s DC Defenders, marking a return to the city in which “JungleBoi” had some of his best NFL success.

While in garnet and black, Swearinger had an All-SEC career and was known as one of the biggest hitters in the SEC. He tallied 244 tackles, 4 forced fumbles, 6 interceptions, and 16 pass breakups at Carolina, all top-10 marks for South Carolina safeties. His impact was felt in more than just the numbers, as Swearinger played with an infectious swagger that made his entire defensive unit better. The Gamecocks were a much better because of DJ Swearinger.

After his Carolina career, Swearinger was picked in the second round of the NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. A nine-year NFL career followed in which he was a starter for multiple franchises including the Washington Redskins. Swearinger was released from the franchise despite his strong play because he was publicly critical of the coaching staff and management.

Saturday marked his return to play in DC as the Defenders played in front of a sold out crowd at Audi Field. In Swearinger’s first game in Washington, he made a big play that helped secure a win and home-field advantage for his team in the XFL’s North Division Championship.

In addition to the pick-6, in true Swearinger fashion, #36 also added 8 tackles and a big hit in the Defenders’ victory.

Swearinger and the Defenders have one more game before the XFL’s North Division Championship on April 30th. They will take on the San Antonio Brahmas in San Antonio on Saturday, April 22nd at 3:00 on ABC. Their opponent in the XFL’s North Division Championship has not yet been determined.