Another major recruiting win for Shane Beamer and the South Carolina Gamecocks.
Class of 2026 four-star running back Amari Thomas has officially committed to South Carolina on Friday afternoon, choosing the Gamecocks over his previous pledge Florida State, as well as Colorado and Georgia Tech. Rated as a four-star prospect by Rivals and the No. 18 running back in the 2026 class, Thomas will bring explosive talent to the Gamecocks where he will thrive in SEC-style play.
Thomas is coming off of a massive junior year at Blountstown (Fla.) High School, where he amassed 1,880 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns while averaging over 12 yards per carry. His unique blend of speed and breakaway ability makes him one of the most dangerous backs in the nation. Thomas will be a massive addition to the Gamecocks' 2026 class.
Thomas' commitment did not come out of nowhere, however. Despite an early pledge to Florida State, Thomas remained a top priority for South Carolina. His official visit to Columbia this summer played a pivotal role, with Thomas praising the program for its trajectory and potential postseason success. “South Carolina should be a playoff team,” he told Rivals. That kind of belief is now backed up with a commitment.
Running backs coach Marquel Blackwell led the charge in recruiting Thomas, and the coaching staff's efforts have clearly paid off. Thomas becomes one of the headliners of the Class of 2026 for the Gamecocks, adding explosive talent to a backfield that is quickly building momentum for the future.