A Comprehensive Look Back at the Career Outcomes of Every Player Signed by Shane Beamer at South Carolina Since 2021
When Shane Beamer took over as head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks in December 2020, he inherited a program seeking stability, culture, and competitiveness. The son of legendary coach Frank Beamer, Shane quickly began to mold the Gamecocks in his vision, building recruiting classes that focused not just on talent, but also on character, development, and team-first mentality. Now, several years into his tenure, it’s worth revisiting the players he’s signed to see how their careers have unfolded—whether they blossomed in Columbia, transferred, or moved on to professional football.
Beamer’s first class in 2021 came together under unusual circumstances. With the COVID-19 pandemic still affecting the recruiting process and limited time to recruit after taking over late in the cycle, he emphasized filling needs through the transfer portal and JUCOs while laying groundwork for the high school ranks. That class included key players like Juju McDowell, who became a reliable backfield weapon and special teams contributor. While not the most statistically dominant, McDowell’s versatility and leadership made him a key figure. The 2021 group also featured quarterback Colten Gauthier, who never earned significant playing time and eventually transferred to find opportunities elsewhere. Others, like linebacker Bam Martin-Scott, emerged as contributors on special teams and depth roles.
In 2022, Beamer had his first full recruiting cycle, and the class reflected his growing influence and the staff’s strategic approach. Headlined by four-star quarterback Braden Davis, this class offered a mix of upside and need-based additions. Davis, however, transferred after one season due to a crowded quarterback room and limited development. Conversely, defensive back Emory Floyd stayed and developed into a steady rotational piece in the secondary, showing flashes of the athleticism that made him a coveted prospect.
The offensive line group from the 2022 class was highlighted by Ryan Brubaker, a promising tackle prospect who redshirted his first year and has been developing behind the scenes. While he hasn’t cracked the starting lineup consistently, he remains a player the staff is high on. That same year, safety Nick Emmanwori arrived as a relatively under-the-radar signee but quickly rose to prominence. As a freshman, Emmanwori led the team in tackles and earned Freshman All-American honors. His development into one of the top defenders in the SEC is arguably one of Beamer’s biggest recruiting wins to date.
Another 2022 gem was wide receiver O’Mega Blake. Although not an instant-impact player, Blake gradually earned more reps and became a reliable target in the Gamecocks’ passing attack. He’s also emblematic of Beamer’s emphasis on player development, as he grew from a depth piece into a legitimate contributor. Meanwhile, Landon Samson, who transferred in from TCU, struggled to find consistent playing time and eventually entered the portal again, highlighting the inherent uncertainty of transfer evaluations.
Perhaps one of Beamer’s most high-profile signings was five-star athlete Nyck Harbor in the 2023 class. A freakish blend of size, speed, and power, Harbor’s recruitment was a national storyline. South Carolina beat out major programs to land him, and although his freshman year was filled with adjustment, glimpses of his potential were evident. Coaches and fans alike remain optimistic that Harbor could become a game-changer once he fully transitions to the college level, particularly at wide receiver where the team has needed explosive playmakers.
The 2023 class also featured offensive lineman Tree Babalade, who quickly impressed with his physicality and work ethic. He earned early playing time and appears to be on the trajectory to become a multi-year starter. On the defensive side, linebacker Grayson Howard showed flashes as a freshman, especially on special teams, and has drawn comparisons to past South Carolina linebackers who developed into NFL-caliber players.
Several of Beamer’s transfer portal additions deserve mention as well, especially considering how he’s used it as a tool to supplement his high school recruiting classes. Spencer Rattler, the former Oklahoma quarterback, was perhaps the biggest splash. Rattler brought both name recognition and elite arm talent to Columbia. While his tenure had its ups and downs, his leadership, toughness, and late-season heroics—especially in the 2022 upset wins over Tennessee and Clemson—cemented his place in Gamecock lore. He later declared for the NFL Draft, where he became a mid-round pick, fulfilling the professional aspirations that once made him a five-star recruit.
Running back Christian Beal-Smith transferred in from Wake Forest and gave the Gamecocks depth and experience in the backfield during the 2022 season. His role was never star-level, but he provided stability and leadership. Conversely, other portal additions like Antwane “Juice” Wells blossomed spectacularly. Wells became a top receiver in the SEC, compiling over 900 yards and showcasing elite ball skills before an injury in 2023 slowed him down. Still, when healthy, Wells demonstrated that Beamer and his staff could identify and develop elite talent from the FCS level.
Defensively, edge rusher Jordan Strachan transferred in from Georgia State and battled injuries during his time in Columbia. While availability was an issue, his athleticism flashed whenever he was on the field. Another defensive transfer, safety Tyrese Ross, never became a consistent presence and eventually moved on, again illustrating that not every portal addition is a success.
Looking at the 2024 class, while it’s still too early to judge on-field results, several prospects stand out based on early returns. Four-star linebacker Fred “JayR” Johnson drew rave reviews in spring practice and could push for early playing time. Quarterback Dante Reno, one of the more vocal peer recruiters in the class, is expected to redshirt while learning the system, but his arm strength and football IQ provide promise for the future.
This class also includes multiple trench players like Kam Pringle and Blake Franks—massive offensive line prospects who project as foundational building blocks. Beamer has repeatedly emphasized winning in the trenches, and these signings reflect that philosophy. Meanwhile, wide receiver Mazeo Bennett has the speed and route-running ability to contribute quickly, and defensive back Jalewis Solomon adds to an already athletic and deep secondary group.
While not every player signed by Beamer has become a star—or even stayed in the program—the overall trend is one of progression and purpose. He’s clearly emphasized building a foundation rooted in both recruiting and development. For players who transferred out, some, like Braden Davis and Lovasea Carroll (who later left football altogether), may not have found their footing in Columbia but continued chasing their goals elsewhere.
Importantly, Beamer has also been able to retain core players amid the chaos of modern college football’s NIL landscape and transfer portal shifts. The loyalty shown by guys like Emmanwori, Babalade, and others speaks to the culture he’s built—a key part of any successful long-term program. That culture, combined with improved facilities, competitive NIL support, and a passionate fan base, has made South Carolina a more attractive and stable destination for both high school stars and seasoned transfers.
Ultimately, the Shane Beamer era at South Carolina is still unfolding. However, a retrospective look at the players he’s brought in offers plenty of optimism. From hidden gems to high-profile signings, the roster has steadily improved in depth, talent, and competitiveness. While not immune to the hits and misses that come with every recruiting class, Beamer’s track record so far suggests a coach who understands the modern game and is building the Gamecocks into a consistent SEC contender. The careers of the players he’s signed—those who’ve become stars, solid contributors, or moved on—tell a story of a program growing stronger year by year under his leadership.
