South Carolina football did not take a single scholarship player on this year's National Signing Day as they took their entire high school and junior college class on Early Signing Day. However, two walk-ons joined the program in the form of in-state prospects Jake Recker (offensive lineman/long snapper, Indian Land High School) and Emazon Littlejohn (wide receiver/kick returner, Gaffney High School).
The day after Signing Day saw the Gamecocks continue adding to their walk-on roster as another in-state player pledged his services to Shane Beamer's program.
COMITTED!!🐔🐔🤙🏼🤙🏼@GamecockFB @togray14 @CoachSBeamer @RidgeCatawba @CoachSweeting @ZLendyak @Grind_Hard29 #Gamecocks #GoCocks #SpursUp #AGTG pic.twitter.com/lIaXjDbMgR
— Jackson Burger (@JacksonBurger6) February 8, 2024
Defensive back Jackson Burger of Catawba Ridge High School announced his decision to be a Gamecock through an announcement graphic on his personal Twitter/X account.
As a player, Burger spent most of his time on defense as a hard-hitting safety and linebacker who made opponents think twice about coming over the middle of the field. He was not afraid to step up in run support, but his 6'2" frame gave him an advantage on balls in the air in the passing game, as well.
Burger got some snaps on offense, as well, operating as a deep ball and red zone threat at wide receiver.
Because his college future is likely on defense, it will be interesting to monitor Burger's weight after he spends some time in a college weight room. Currently listed at 190 pounds, he is firmly in defensive back weight range, but his frame seems to indicate he can carry more weight effectively, and his hard-hitting style could fit well at linebacker, a position he has familiarity with at the high school level.
It is worth noting that Burger tagged South Carolina football defensive backs coach Torrian Gray in his post, indicating he will begin his career as a defensive back. He profiles similarly as class of 2024 3-star addition David Bucey as a run-stopping safety who played a lot of linebacker in high school.
Burger is one of at least four walk-ons from this cycle that hail from the stretch of I-85 between Gaffney and Rock Hill, a talent-rich part of the state.
You can watch some of his film here.