South Carolina's 2026 recruiting efforts got a little interesting on Saturday night. While the Gamecocks opened their home schedule against SC State, several recruits already committed elsewhere were set to be in the building at Williams-Brice Stadium.
Among the most notable names was Julian Walker, a four-star defensive end from Dutch Fork High School. Walker is the son of Gamecocks assistant strength and conditioning coach Jamil Walker. He committed to Michigan earlier this year over offers from North Carolina, NC State, and others. His attendance at Saturday's game put him back around South Carolina's coaches, players, and recruiting targets.
Michigan EDGE commit Julian Walker is here at Williams-Brice Stadium ahead of Gamecock Walk. https://t.co/Vt3iV6NUPu pic.twitter.com/oJkKm6mS9S
— Jack Veltri (@Jacktveltri) September 6, 2025
The Gamecocks also hosted East Carolina defensive tackle commit Kelton Smith of Gaffney, S.C., and Arkansas running back commit Jordan Avinger of Orangeburg, S.C.
The recruiting visitor list extends beyond the 2026 class. In-state linebacker Jackson Ross from Hammond and Charlotte prospect Keland Shelton, both Class of 2027, were also expected to attend Saturday night's game against SC State.
Looking further ahead, the Gamecocks will host multiple 2028 prospects at upcoming games. Some of them include four-star safety Casey Barner from Powder Springs, Ga., the nation's No. 1 ranked safety according to 247Sports. Tight end Faraji Tucker and offensive lineman T.J. Brandon, both from Douglasville, Ga., plus linebacker Corvin Watson from Virginia Beach, Va., will all round out the early-cycle names to watch.
South Carolina's home opener brought attention to some familiar faces and future stars into Williams-Brice Stadium, with several players worth monitoring even if they are currently pledged to other programs.