No South Carolina Gamecocks Taken in the First Round of the NFL Draft
After many projected at least one Gamecock to get selected early on, no South Carolina players were selected in round one of the 2025 NFL Draft.
The best chance for a former Gamecock to go in the first round was safety Nick Emmanwori, who was a top 25 player in the draft according to ESPN. Now that Emmanwori wasn’t picked, all eyes turn to day two of the draft where South Carolina fans can see a number of players go off the board.
Emmanwori is still the highest rated player of that group. However TJ Sanders, Demetrius Knight Jr., and Kyle Kennard are also looking to go in the next two rounds. The question remains, how early will they all go?
The South Carolina Gamecocks on SI staff will have up to date news on all the Gamecocks draft picks over the next two days.
The South Carolina Gamecocks have a storied football history, but they faced a unique challenge in the NFL Draft when no players were selected in the first round for several years. This absence can be attributed to various factors, including the team’s performance in college football, the level of competition within the Southeastern Conference (SEC), and the evolving dynamics of the draft process.
Despite the lack of first-round selections, the Gamecocks have produced numerous talented players who have made significant impacts in the NFL. These athletes often find success in later rounds, demonstrating that a player’s potential isn’t solely determined by their draft position. Coaches and scouts prioritize various skills, work ethic, and character qualities over mere collegiate accolades.
While fans hope to see Gamecocks players’ names called in the first round, the focus remains on player development and fostering talent. As the program continues to evolve and recruit top prospects, the potential for future first-round selections remains. The Gamecocks’ resilience and commitment to excellence on the field ensure that the journey for their athletes continues, with aspirations of making their mark on the professional level.