South Carolina Target Kamari Blair Scheduled to Make Commitment Decision Today—Will the Coveted Edge Rusher Pick the Gamecocks?
The South Carolina Gamecocks are in wait-and-see mode, and the spotlight is now squarely on Kamari Blair. The explosive edge rusher from Mableton, Georgia is scheduled to announce his college commitment today, and all eyes in Columbia—and across the Southeastern Conference—are watching to see if the rising pass-rushing star chooses Shane Beamer’s program. For a team looking to build on a promising foundation and elevate its defensive presence in the rugged SEC, Blair’s decision could have major implications for the Gamecocks’ future trajectory.
At 6-foot-3 and 250 pounds, Blair has the size, speed, and strength to be a nightmare for offensive linemen at the next level. Rated as a high three-star prospect with the potential to earn a fourth star by the time the 2025 recruiting cycle wraps up, Blair has steadily risen in the rankings thanks to a combination of raw talent and refined technique. Coaches rave about his ability to bend the edge, maintain leverage, and finish plays with authority. It’s no surprise then that his final decision is coming down to a handful of notable Power Five programs—among them, the South Carolina Gamecocks.
South Carolina has done everything right in Blair’s recruitment. Defensive line coach Travian Robertson has been relentless in his pursuit of the Georgia native, pitching Blair not just on scheme fit but on a larger vision—being a program-defining player who can help lead a defensive resurgence in Columbia. From day one, South Carolina has emphasized early playing time, defensive development, and a strong personal relationship between Blair and the coaching staff. It’s the kind of attention that has separated the Gamecocks from other suitors.
But recruiting is never a one-way street. Blair has reciprocated interest, visiting Columbia multiple times over the past year. He’s been seen at spring practice, attended a junior day event, and most recently, took an official visit in June. According to sources close to the situation, that visit left a lasting impression on both the prospect and his family. The Gamecocks’ staff gave him a vision of how he could be used in Clayton White’s defense, projecting Blair as a versatile threat who could line up in multiple spots depending on the opponent’s scheme. They see him not just as a pass rusher, but a dynamic defender who can contribute immediately in the SEC.
Still, the Gamecocks face stiff competition. UCF, Georgia Tech, and Miami are firmly in the mix, each with their own pitch. UCF has emphasized Blair’s fit in their aggressive defensive system and the opportunity to be a centerpiece in their transition into a consistent Power Five contender. Georgia Tech has the hometown advantage, along with a renewed focus on rebuilding their defensive identity. Miami, long known for producing elite defensive talent, has pitched Blair on the legacy of great Hurricane edge rushers and what it would mean to add his name to that lineage.
This makes today’s decision all the more suspenseful. Blair has remained tight-lipped in recent weeks, giving little indication of which way he is leaning. There have been hints—cryptic social media posts, brief comments to reporters, and reported final phone calls with coaching staffs—but nothing definitive. That has led to a whirlwind of speculation among fanbases. South Carolina fans, in particular, are hoping that Blair’s consistent visits to Columbia and close ties to the coaching staff will be enough to sway him.
If Blair does choose South Carolina, it would be a statement win for Beamer and company—not just on the recruiting trail, but for the program’s long-term defensive vision. Adding Blair would mark another high-upside defender to pair with recent commitments and bolster a front seven that is starting to resemble a true SEC-caliber unit. The Gamecocks have been looking for their next pass-rushing star since Jordan Burch and Zacch Pickens moved on, and Blair could be the heir apparent.
Blair’s commitment would also be a sign of momentum. South Carolina’s 2025 recruiting class has been gaining steam over the summer, but landing Blair would give it a jolt of energy and potentially open the door for other targets to follow suit. Recruits pay attention to who joins a class, and Blair’s name carries enough weight to make an impact in peer recruiting conversations. Momentum is everything in college football, especially when it comes to building a class that can compete against the likes of Georgia, Alabama, and LSU.
Of course, if Blair picks elsewhere, it would be a tough pill to swallow. The Gamecocks have invested significant time and resources into his recruitment, and losing him would be a blow, especially if he ends up in-conference. That said, Beamer’s staff has built a strong pipeline of defensive line prospects and would no doubt regroup quickly. But there’s no denying Blair represents a high-priority target, and missing out on him would shift the staff’s focus to Plan B options.
What separates Blair from many others in this class is not just his physical gifts, but his intangibles. Coaches describe him as focused, humble, and relentless—someone who wants to be coached hard and who thrives in competitive environments. That’s part of what makes his recruitment so compelling. Programs see not just an athlete, but a potential program cornerstone.
As the clock ticks down to his announcement, the anticipation continues to grow. Recruiting experts have not reached a consensus, and the crystal ball predictions remain divided. Some point to the strong relationship between Blair and South Carolina’s staff. Others note Miami’s recent recruiting surge and Georgia Tech’s push to keep top talent in-state. Ultimately, the decision will come down to where Blair sees the best opportunity for development, exposure, and success.
What’s clear is that whichever program lands Kamari Blair is getting a player with star potential. He has the traits to develop into a high-impact defender in college and potentially beyond. His first step is explosive. His hand technique is refined. His football IQ is ahead of the curve for a player his age. Add that to his work ethic and coachability, and it’s easy to see why so many schools have made him a top priority.
South Carolina has made their case. They’ve pitched the plan, shown the love, and painted the vision. Now it’s up to Blair to decide whether he sees himself in garnet and black or chooses a different path. Today’s announcement won’t just reveal a commitment—it will reveal the future trajectory of a young man poised to become one of the next great college football edge rushers.
The Gamecock faithful will be holding their breath, refreshing their screens, and waiting for those four words: “I’m going to South Carolina.” Whether those words are said or not will determine the emotions in Columbia today. All that’s left now is the moment of truth. Will Kamari Blair become a Gamecock? We’re about to find out.
