Torrian Gray, the South Carolina football defensive backs coach, has a lot of talent in his locker room, particularly at safety. Nick
Emmanwori, DQ Smith, and Jalon Kilgore were all awarded Freshman All-Americans after splitting time at safety and nickel the previous
two seasons.
Because Emmanwori and Smith are also draft eligible, the 2024 season could be the last time all three players wear garnet and black
together. Emmanwori, in particular, might be a candidate for the 2025 NFL Draft if he decides to leave school. Kilgore would be draft
eligible in 2026, and given his freshman performance, the draft appears to be a feasible finish to his junior season.
Because of the possibility for turnover at the position over the next two seasons, the Gamecocks must prioritize recruiting new talent to
play safety in garnet and black. JaDon Blair, a native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is one of USC’s top targets at the position.
On Friday, the 4-star safety disclosed his top ten schools, which included Gray and the Gamecocks.
Blair’s top ten teams are the South Carolina Gamecocks, Wake Forest Demon Deacons, Penn State Nittany Lions, Louisville Cardinals,
Maryland Terrapins, Florida State Seminoles, Virginia Tech Hokies, Miami Hurricanes, Michigan Wolverines, and Notre Dame Fighting
Irish.
Blair has outstanding stature for the safety position, measuring 6’4″ and weighing over 200 pounds. He is also regarded as a plus-sized
athlete, which is evident when watching his film. He glides fluidly all over the defense, making plays on the ball in the air and coming
down to aid with run support.
