Gamecocks offer local defender from Dutch Fork following standout camp performance

The Gamecocks have offered a dominant Dutch Fork defender after a strong showing from their OL/DL camp, putting the 2026 prospect on South Carolina's radar.
Nov 9, 2024; Nashville, Tennessee, USA;  South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Shane Beamer watches from the sidelines against the Vanderbilt Commodores during the first half at FirstBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Nov 9, 2024; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Shane Beamer watches from the sidelines against the Vanderbilt Commodores during the first half at FirstBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images | Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Another disruptive force is emerging from Dutch Fork High School, and South Carolina is all over it. Fresh off a strong showing at the Gamecocks' OL/DL camp on Friday, Jaden Wuerth, a junior defensive end from Dutch Fork walked away with a big-time offer in his hometown. The 6-foot-2, 270-pound transfer made his presence made, earning a scholarship offer from Shane Beamer's staff, officially landing on the Gamecock's radar for 2026.

Wuerth actually transferred from Georgia's powerhouse program at Aquinas High School in the spring to Dutch Fork. He has already received offers from Liberty, Murray State, Western Kentucky, and Georgia Tech, but the vibes from South Carolina are different. “The offer definitely means a lot with South Carolina being so close to Dutch Fork and players that used to play at Dutch Fork now playing at South Carolina,” he told The State.

Wuerth is ranked as a 3-star by On3, and even before taking the field with the Silver Foxes, he was building a monster resume. In two seasons, he has already stacked up 286 tackles, 74 for a loss, and 27 sacks.

The Gamecocks' relationship with Dutch Fork High, itself, continues to grow, as the program is also heavily recruiting Wuerth's teammate Julian Walker, who will has an upcoming official visit. Walker will also take visits to North Carolina, NC State, and Michigan.

Beamer and the Gamecocks aren't just keeping the local talent at home, they are building a pipeline from a South Carolina powerhouse.