South Carolina football coach Shane Beamer teased out a commitment to his team on Saturday when he posted on Twitter/X his patented #WelcomeHome message. It didn't take long for Gamecock fans to learn the identity of the new pledge as Blackville-Hilda High School athlete Jaquel Holman came forward with his public commitment to USC.
I want to thank all the colleges and coaches that recruited me. The decision was not easy, as all of the programs that offered me are great. After a lot of thought and talks with my parents, I am happy to announce my commitment to the University of South Carolina!! #GoCocks🤙🏾… pic.twitter.com/PrmJ0Wd6hp
— 3⭐️ATH| Jaquel Holman (@JaquelHolman) June 8, 2024
Holman is an extremely underrated prospect who recently received 3-star rankings from both On3 and 247Sports. He is rated as a linebacker by On3, a running back by 247Sports, and an unranked athlete by Rivals. Holman had been on the Gamecocks' radar for some time, but after receiving his official scholarship offer recently, he pulled the trigger on a commitment to the home-state team.
As a player, Holman brings a lot to the table that should excite fans. He is a powerful and explosive athlete, weighing about 200 pounds at 6'1" while possessing track speed. Most of Holman's film is at running back, but he is expected to play defense for the Gamecocks. Whether he winds up as a linebacker or a defensive back in garnet and black remains to be seen. He has a frame that can add even more weight.
On the defensive side of the ball, Holman plays safety and linebacker for Blackville-Hilda, and he is a fierce competitor on the field. He is a hard-hitting tackler and a fluid mover in traffic. He does a good job of avoiding blocks to get to ballcarriers, but whenever it is time to be physical, he is ready.
His combination of potential size and speed gives him the profile of a player who could be a special teams demon for new special teams coordinator Joe DeCamillis. He could see the field early with the Gamecocks on coverage units or even in the return game.
You can watch some of his film here.