South Carolina is in a tight recruiting battle for elite 2026 player who is also considering National Championship contenders

Gamecocks land in top five for Darius Gray

Darius Gray is probably one of the best overall recruits remaining uncommitted from the 2026 class, and the Gamecocks have a chance at getting him. Gray is a five-star interior offensive lineman from St. Christopher’s School in Richmond, Virginia. At 6'3" and 285 pounds, Gray dominates at guard with his strength, agility, and quickness off the line.

In 2024, he excelled in run blocking and pass protection, while also playing defensive line, recording 50 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, and eight sacks. He's a bit of a do-it-all guy in the trenches in terms of the high school level, but in college, he will likely be a guard.

His versatility and power make him a projected early-round NFL draft pick, but there is still a ton of work and development that needs to be done. South Carolina can help with that, but then again, those other schools could probably help a bit more, seeing that they send guys like Gray to the NFL every single year.

With 45 scholarship offers from programs like Alabama, Georgia, Michigan, and USC, Gray narrowed his list to Tennessee, Clemson, LSU, Ohio State , and South Carolina, giving the Gamecocks a real chance. Tennessee is a frontrunner after strong connections with head coach Josh Heupel and offensive line coach Glen Elarbee during visits, though LSU and South Carolina remain contenders. 

Ranked as the No. 1 interior offensive lineman, No. 2 player in Virginia, and No. 28 overall prospect by 247Sports, Gray’s skills at guard and potential at tackle make him a critical recruit.