South Carolina's Shaw Elliott offers in-state sleeper for 2026 class

South Carolina tight ends coach Shawn Elliott has offered Cross, SC athlete Caden Ramsey, a 2026 prospect and basketball standout.
East Carolina v South Carolina
East Carolina v South Carolina | Mary Ann Chastain/GettyImages

South Carolina seems to be staying close to the vest when it comes to recruiting, searching for in-state talent. And one of the state's most interesting and under-the-radar athletes just picked up a major offer from the Carolina staff. Caden Ramsey, a 6-foot-5, 215-pound standout from Cross High School officially received an offer from the Gamecocks on Friday. Ramsey showcases his athleticism on the field as well as on the court, as he is also a standout basketball player for his high school. He was first reported by GamecockCentral to be under evaluation by South Carolina earlier this year and has long been under the radar of tight ends coach Shawn Elliott.

Other schools are actively recruiting Ramsey as a wide receiver, which is what he plays on his high school team. However, South Carolina sees his frame and athleticism to fit a tight end position better. The extended offer comes as part of the program's continued efforts to lock in two high school tight ends for the 2026 season. If he commits, Ramsey would potentially be a complement to Jamel Howse, a four-star from Newberry. Howse has been committed to the Gamecocks since 2023.

In addition to the Gamecocks, Ramsey holds offers from Virginia Tech, Syracuse, South Florida, Georgia Tech, ECU, Coastal Carolina, and Charlotte. While he is currently unranked by major services, his frame and athletic upside makes him a great prospect and a good fit for South Carolina. It would also be another smart move for the Gamecocks as they continue to build their 2026 class with a homegrown foundation.