Knight’s Ascent: South Carolina Linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. Secures Coveted Second-Round NFL Draft Selection
The dreams of countless collegiate athletes culminate each year in the National Football League Draft, a pivotal event that reshapes rosters and launches professional careers. For South Carolina linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr., that dream became a tangible reality on Friday, April 25, 2025, when the Cincinnati Bengals selected him with the 17th pick of the second round, the 49th overall selection. This hard-earned selection marks a significant milestone for Knight, a testament to his perseverance, athleticism, and leadership, and adds his name to the esteemed list of Gamecocks who have transitioned to the professional ranks.
Knight’s journey to this momentous occasion was anything but conventional, showcasing his adaptability and unwavering commitment to the linebacker position. He initially embarked on his college career as a quarterback with the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. While he possessed the athleticism that would later define his defensive prowess, a consistent role on offense did not materialize. Demonstrating a willingness to embrace change and pursue his football aspirations, Knight transitioned to the defensive side of the ball, a move that would ultimately unlock his full potential.
After his time at Georgia Tech, Knight transferred to the Charlotte 49ers, where he experienced a breakout season. His impact was undeniable, earning him first-team all-conference honors in 2023. This stellar performance provided a glimpse of the player he could become, showcasing his instincts, physicality, and ability to make plays. However, Knight sought to further test himself against elite competition and elevate his draft stock. This ambition led him to the University of South Carolina for his final collegiate season in 2024.
In Columbia, Knight seamlessly integrated into the Gamecocks’ defense, quickly establishing himself as not only a key contributor on the field but also a respected leader in the locker room. He was named a Rex Enright Team Captain, recognized as the Most Outstanding Senior, and was one of three players to earn the Joe Morrison MVP award for the defense. His coaches also acknowledged his dedication and work ethic with the Strength and Conditioning Award and the Nutrition Award.
On the field, Knight’s impact was immediate and significant. He finished the 2024 season second on the team with an impressive 82 tackles, including 57 solo stops. His disruptive presence was further evidenced by his 8.0 tackles for loss and 2.0 sacks. Knight also demonstrated his ability to create turnovers, logging three forced fumbles and an interception. His consistent performance was highlighted by three games with double-digit tackles, including a season-high 11 stops in consecutive contests against Oklahoma and Texas A&M, and another 10 in a crucial victory over Clemson.
Perhaps one of the most defining moments of Knight’s senior season came in the regular-season finale against the rival Clemson Tigers. With the Gamecocks clinging to a narrow 17-14 lead, Knight sealed the victory with a timely interception on Clemson’s final drive, etching his name into the annals of the storied rivalry and further solidifying his reputation as a clutch player.
Standing at approximately 6-foot-2 and weighing around 235 pounds, Knight possesses the prototypical size and build for an NFL linebacker. His athleticism is also a significant asset, reportedly clocking a 4.58-second 40-yard dash, showcasing his speed and range. Beyond his physical attributes, Knight is lauded for his football intelligence, instincts, and ability to quickly diagnose plays. His experience as a former quarterback provides him with a unique perspective, allowing him to anticipate quarterback reads and understand offensive schemes.
Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden spoke highly of Knight’s abilities, noting his impressive physical tools and the valuable experience he gained playing in a strong South Carolina defense. Golden emphasized Knight’s versatility, mentioning his potential to contribute in various defensive looks and his competitive spirit. Head coach Zac Taylor echoed this sentiment, highlighting Knight’s maturity, leadership qualities, and the high regard in which he was held by those around him. Taylor expressed his excitement to see Knight compete for a role immediately, recognizing his potential to contribute on both defense and special teams.
Knight becomes the first South Carolina linebacker selected in the NFL Draft since Ernest Jones in 2021, underscoring the significance of his accomplishment. He also joins safety Nick Emmanwori and defensive lineman T.J. Sanders as Gamecocks selected in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, marking a strong showing for the program. Interestingly, Knight is the first Gamecock chosen by the Cincinnati Bengals since T.J. Johnson was drafted by the team in the seventh round of the 2013 draft.
Reflecting on his journey, Knight acknowledges the importance of his family, including his wife and two children, as a driving force in his career. He believes his relative maturity as a 25-year-old rookie provides him with an edge, having gained valuable experience and perspective throughout his collegiate career. Knight is eager to contribute to the Bengals organization, expressing a “nasty” playing style and a “hunter” mentality, determined to do whatever it takes to help his new team achieve victory.
As Demetrius Knight Jr. embarks on his NFL journey with the Cincinnati Bengals, he carries with him the pride of the South Carolina Gamecocks and the unwavering support of his family. His selection in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft is a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and a willingness to adapt and excel. The Bengals are gaining a talented, athletic, and intelligent linebacker with proven leadership qualities, and Gamecock fans will undoubtedly be watching with anticipation as Knight begins his professional career. His story serves as an inspiring example of perseverance and the rewards that come with embracing challenges and pursuing one’s passion with unwavering focus.
