JUST IN: Breaking: Five-Star Tight End Oscar Delp (6’5″245 lbs) decommits from Georgia and picks South Carolina over Clemson, Texas A&M, LSU, and Florida.
Oscar Delp’s unexpected decision to decommit from the University of Georgia and instead pledge his allegiance to the South Carolina Gamecocks has sent shockwaves across the college football landscape. A five-star tight end standing 6’5” and weighing 245 pounds, Delp was one of the crown jewels of Georgia’s 2025 recruiting class. His size, athleticism, and polished route-running have made him a coveted prospect, and his commitment had been viewed as a major recruiting win for the Bulldogs. However, in a twist that few saw coming, Delp has decided to change course and commit to Shane Beamer’s South Carolina program, choosing the Gamecocks over a competitive list of finalists that included Clemson, Texas A\&M, LSU, and Florida.
Delp’s decision represents a monumental recruiting victory for South Carolina and signals a potential shift in momentum for the program. For months, the tight end had been considered solid in his commitment to Georgia, with the Bulldogs’ high-powered offense and recent success in developing NFL-caliber talent being major draws. Delp was seen as a perfect fit for Georgia’s offensive scheme and was projected to be the next in a long line of standout tight ends to thrive in Athens. Yet, behind the scenes, South Carolina continued to build a strong relationship with Delp and his family, offering a compelling vision of his future in Columbia that ultimately swayed his decision.
The Gamecocks coaching staff, led by head coach Shane Beamer and tight ends coach Jody Wright, made Delp a top priority. Their tireless recruitment and consistent communication paid off, with Delp citing the strong connection he felt with the staff as a key reason for his decision. Beamer’s background with tight ends and his involvement in offensive planning gave Delp confidence that he would be used effectively and immediately. The Gamecocks’ willingness to tailor their offensive system to highlight his abilities showed a level of commitment that resonated deeply with the five-star talent. Delp also mentioned the family atmosphere at South Carolina, saying he felt “genuinely wanted and valued” by the entire program.
For South Carolina, Delp’s commitment is more than just a high-profile recruiting win—it’s a statement. The Gamecocks have been trying to re-establish themselves as a force in the SEC, and securing a player of Delp’s caliber sends a clear message to the rest of the conference. It demonstrates that South Carolina can compete for elite talent not just in the Southeast but across the nation. The addition of Delp gives the Gamecocks a legitimate playmaker who can stretch the field, block effectively, and create matchup nightmares for opposing defenses. His rare combination of size, speed, and hands makes him one of the most complete tight end prospects in recent memory, and his presence will elevate the Gamecocks’ offense from day one.
On the other side of the equation, Georgia’s loss of Delp is a significant blow. While the Bulldogs are known for reloading with top-tier talent year after year, the departure of a player like Delp—especially to a division rival—is never easy to swallow. Georgia had invested considerable time and resources into securing Delp’s commitment, and his decommitment forces the Bulldogs to reevaluate their tight end recruiting strategy. Though they still have a strong recruiting class, the loss of Delp opens a gap at a position that has been crucial to their recent success. With Brock Bowers likely headed to the NFL, the Bulldogs were counting on Delp to help fill that void in the coming years.
The ripple effects of Delp’s commitment decision will be felt not just in Athens and Columbia, but across the SEC and college football as a whole. Programs like Clemson, Texas A\&M, LSU, and Florida were all deeply involved in his recruitment, and missing out on Delp will undoubtedly alter their own plans. Clemson, in particular, had made a strong late push, banking on its strong track record with offensive skill players and proximity to Delp’s home in Georgia. Texas A\&M and LSU offered compelling opportunities in their offensive systems, while Florida pitched early playing time and a tight end-friendly scheme under their new coaching staff. All were considered serious contenders, making Delp’s decision to go with South Carolina all the more surprising and significant.
What makes this decision even more compelling is Delp’s reasoning. He spoke about the authenticity he felt during his visits to South Carolina and the bond he formed with not just the coaches, but the players and support staff as well. He emphasized how the Gamecocks made him feel like a cornerstone of the program, not just another recruit. The ability to be a foundational piece of South Carolina’s future, rather than simply joining a long list of blue-chip athletes at Georgia or LSU, was something that appealed to Delp’s competitive nature and desire to make a tangible impact.
The move also speaks volumes about Shane Beamer’s ability to recruit and connect with elite talent. In just a few seasons at the helm, Beamer has begun to change the narrative surrounding South Carolina football. Once seen as a mid-tier SEC program that struggled to compete with the likes of Georgia and Alabama for top recruits, South Carolina is now increasingly viewed as a destination for players looking for early playing time, personal development, and a strong team culture. Beamer’s energy, authenticity, and vision for the program have clearly resonated with recruits like Delp, and this commitment could be a catalyst for even more high-profile additions in the near future.
From an on-field perspective, Delp projects to be an immediate contributor for South Carolina. His physical tools and football IQ are already at an elite level, and he’s considered college-ready from day one. He possesses a wide catch radius, excellent body control, and soft hands, making him a reliable target in the passing game. At the same time, he’s a willing and capable blocker, able to hold his own against defensive ends and linebackers in the run game. That combination of receiving and blocking ability makes him a true every-down player who can stay on the field in any situation. In an era where tight ends are being used more creatively than ever before, Delp’s versatility will give South Carolina’s offense a dynamic new dimension.
There’s also the potential for Delp to become a leader both on and off the field. Known for his work ethic, competitive spirit, and football IQ, Delp has already earned the respect of coaches and peers alike. He’s seen as someone who leads by example and raises the level of play around him. In a program that is still building its identity under Coach Beamer, having a player like Delp set the tone in the locker room could be invaluable. His presence could also help attract other top recruits who want to play alongside elite talent and be part of something special.
Delp’s decision comes at a time when the college football landscape is shifting rapidly, with NIL opportunities, the transfer portal, and conference realignment all playing a role in recruiting decisions. While Delp didn’t cite NIL as a major factor in his commitment, it’s clear that the total package offered by South Carolina—on-field opportunity, personal relationships, and a clear vision for the future—outweighed the traditional prestige offered by schools like Georgia and LSU. That could be a sign of things to come, as more top recruits prioritize fit and opportunity over name recognition alone.
In the end, Oscar Delp’s decision to flip his commitment from Georgia to South Carolina marks a defining moment for all programs involved. For Georgia, it’s a tough blow and a reminder that no commitment is safe until signing day. For Clemson, Texas A\&M, LSU, and Florida, it’s a missed opportunity to land a game-changing talent. But for South Carolina, it’s a triumph—a sign that the Gamecocks are not just dreaming of competing with the SEC’s elite, but actively building a roster that can do so. With Delp now in the fold, the future looks bright in Columbia. And for the rest of the SEC, there’s no longer any doubt: South Carolina is a serious player on the recruiting trail, and Oscar Delp is the proof.
