Columbia Secures Commitment from Offensive Lineman Rodney Newsom Jr. for 2025 Transfer Class

Columbia Welcomes New Addition to Its 2025 Transfer Class

Columbia, South Carolina – The Gamecocks have made a significant addition to their 2025 transfer class with the signing of Rodney Newsom Jr., an offensive lineman from Western Kentucky. Newsom officially committed to South Carolina after his visit this past weekend, becoming the second offensive lineman to join the incoming class, following Wake Forest guard Nick Sharpe who committed on Christmas Eve.

Who is Rodney Newsom Jr.?

Rodney Newsom Jr. is a 6-foot-3, 295-pound athlete who has built an impressive background in college football. He began his journey at Briarcrest Christian School in Tennessee before he kicked off his collegiate career at the University of Memphis as part of the 2020 recruiting class. After two years at Memphis, he transferred to Itawamba Community College, ultimately making his way to Western Kentucky for the 2024 season.

What Does This Addition Mean for South Carolina?

Newsom played in a pivotal role this season, logging 580 snaps, primarily at right guard, with a few plays at center. His performance earned him a grade of 72.5 from Pro Football Focus, showcasing his potential to further strengthen South Carolina’s offensive line. With two years of eligibility remaining, he is anticipated to contribute significantly to the team in the coming seasons.

When Did the Commitment Happen?

The decision to commit came shortly after Newsom visited South Carolina on Saturday and Sunday. His visit followed his participation in the Boca Raton Bowl on December 18, where he represented Western Kentucky.

Where Did Newsom Consider Before Choosing South Carolina?

Before settling on South Carolina, Newsom had options. Both Arkansas and Mississippi State had expressed interest in acquiring his skills. However, South Carolina stood out as the lone school to host him for a visit this month, likely providing a decisive factor in his decision-making process.

Why South Carolina?

In an interview after his visit, Newsom expressed his enthusiasm for the Gamecocks program, sharing that the trip was nothing short of fantastic. “The visit was amazing, enjoyed every moment of it,” he said, indicating a strong feeling of connection to the team and coaching staff.

Looking Ahead

As the NCAA Transfer Portal continues to shape team rosters for the upcoming seasons, Rodney Newsom Jr.’s addition adds depth and experience to South Carolina’s offensive line. The coaching staff will be looking to integrate him effectively into their plans as they build towards a competitive 2025 season.

This development highlights the dynamic landscape of college football, where teams are constantly looking to improve through strategic transfers. With Newsom’s commitment, the Gamecocks are positioning themselves for a strong future in their conference.


Author: HERE Beaufort

HERE Beaufort

Recent Posts

Senator Tom Davis Proposes Funding for Traffic Solutions in Beaufort County

News Summary Amid rising population and worsening traffic congestion, Senator Tom Davis has unveiled a…

23 seconds ago

New Health Facility to Open in Hilton Head Island

News Summary Hilton Head Island is set to welcome a new hybrid emergency room and…

6 minutes ago

Firefighters Combat Multiple Fires in Beaufort County

News Summary Firefighters in Beaufort County, S.C. responded to several fire incidents recently, including a…

8 minutes ago

Upstate South Carolina Schools Transition to E-Learning

News Summary With a severe winter storm predicted to impact travel and safety, multiple school…

1 hour ago

Winter Storm Cora Brings Heavy Snow and Ice Across the South

News Summary Winter Storm Cora has arrived, affecting 19 southern and midwestern states with heavy…

1 hour ago

Columbia, South Carolina Faces Cybersecurity Concerns

News Summary On January 7, 2025, the South Carolina Department of Education reported a cybersecurity…

2 hours ago