South Caorlina football coach Shane Beamer and his staff are hot on the recruiting trail right now.
In the last two weeks, the Gamecocks picked up three commitments from 4-star wide receiver Brian Rowe, 4-star EDGE Anthony Addison, and in-state safety Damarcus Leach. Beamer announced another commitment, as well, but that player has not yet come forward. Many believe that commitment could be 4-star safety Kendall Daniels, Jr. from Norfolk, Virginia who plans to announce his college decision on Sunday.
On Saturday, though, less than two hours before the start of the Garnet and Black Spring Game, elite defensive back Shamari Earls announced his commitment to the South Carolina football program, according to a report from On3's Hayes Fawcett. He is a top-100 prospect according to both On3 and ESPN.
Being from Virginia, Earls continues the DMV/Virginia pipeline for South Carolina (Daniels is also from Virginia). The Gamecocks have taken multiple players from the area in the last couple of recruiting classes, something that should not be a surprise with Shane Beamer as head coach.
Earls is a big-time cornerback prospect who fits exactly what Gamecock defensive backs coach Torrian Gray likes in his corners. Earls is 6'2" and has long arms, but his athleticism stands out even above his size as he has elite speed and explosive quickness.
Earls uses his impressive size and athleticism to blanket opposing receivers and make really nice plays on the ball. He has some experience playing in zone coverage, too, both on the outside at corner and over the top as a safety.
Earls also played wide receiver for his Thomas Dale High School squad and was dangerous on that side of the ball. His future is at defensive back, but that experience as a receiver can only help him as a corner in Torrian Gray's secondary. He is a track athlete, as well, though it is unclear if he hopes to run as a Gamecock.
You can watch some of his film here.