South Carolina's Transfer Portal work continues to take shape as the Gamecocks add two more defensive pieces with SEC familiarity and developmental upside, further reinforcing a roster reset that’s gaining traction. Gamecocks head coach Shane Beamer and his staff have now signed or secured commitments from 16 players, a clear signal that this offseason is about depth, competition, long-term stability, and change.
Two More Defensive Pieces: Kelby & Drew Collins
South Carolina scored a double win with defensive lineman Kelby Collins and his brother EDGE defender Drew Collins, both agreeing to terms to join the Gamecocks for the 2026 season.
Kelby Collins, 6-foot-4 and 275 pounds, was heavily pursued by South Carolina in high school. After making an official visit, Kelby had the Gamecocks in his final five before ultimately committing to Florida in 2022. He spent his first two collegiate seasons with the Gators before transferring to Alabama for 2025, where he appeared in 14 games with 12 tackles, three tackles for loss and two sacks.
His brother Drew Collins, 6-foot-4 and 238 pounds redshirted in 2024 at Arkansas State. He played in 12 games this past season, totaling six tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and three sacks, offering active pass-rush energy off the edge.
Both brothers visited Columbia after stops at Auburn, Kentucky, and Mississippi State, giving the Gamecocks a front-line look before securing their commitments. These additions speak to South Carolina’s renewed defensive identity, pairing developmental potential with proven production in Power Five play.
Offensive Line Bolstered: Seth Smith
In a corresponding offensive upgrade, Offensive Lineman Seth Smith (6-5, 305) out of Northern Arizona has agreed to terms with the Gamecocks, becoming the sixth free agent offensive lineman to join South Carolina’s portal haul. His presence adds another veteran blocker into a unit that’s been a priority for improvements, particularly in SEC competition.
Smith, a native of Chandler, Arizona, visited Columbia earlier in the week in addition to James Madison and Northwestern before choosing South Carolina. A full-time starter in 2024 and team captain, he brings both experience and leadership to a line that is looking to establish cohesion moving forward.