2023 NFL Draft: Carolina defensive back taken in 5th

There is constantly an argument that exists in the realm between college football and the professional game: which football program should be known as “DBU?” The South Carolina football program is one sometimes mentioned in the discussion. With 21 defensive backs drafted from 2000-2022, and a number of them becoming elite NFL contributors, the Gamecocks have an underrated argument for the title. The 2023 NFL Draft added some extra oomph to the “South Carolina as DBU” case.

After Gamecock corner Cam Smith was taken with the 51st pick by the Miami Dolphins his cornerback mate Darius Rush was also selected. Rush went 138th overall (Round 5, Pick 3) to the Indianapolis Colts. Defensive tackle Zacch Pickens went between Smith and Rush at #64 to the Chicago Bears. Rush fell further than expected but ended up in a good situation for himself in Indy as the Colts are in need of filling the starting spot left behind by the trade of fellow Gamecock Stephon Gilmore.

A developmental take from CE Murray High School, Rush did not immediately see the field when he got to Columbia. In fact, it wasn’t until his redshirt junior season that he saw much playing time at all. When he got his chance, however, Rush proved he was ready. Two very good years in garnet and black followed, and #28 put himself in the NFL Draft picture. Exceptional showings at the Senior Bowl and Scouting Combine skyrocketed his draft stock as he showed himself to be both one of the longest (6’10” wingspan) and fastest (4.36-second 40-yard dash) corners in the draft.

Rush will have plenty of chances to play with the Colts. He will battle Dallis Flowers and fellow rookie Julius Brents (drafted in the second round) for the second starting corner spot as Isaiah Rodgers is expected to start on one side.