South Carolina Making a Strong Case for “EDGE Rusher U”

South Carolina Making a Strong Case for “EDGE Rusher U”

South Carolina’s tradition of producing exceptional edge rushers, ranging from All-Pros to potential first-round draft picks, continues to solidify the Gamecocks’ defensive legacy.

In the world of college football, debates over which school claims the title of “X U” for specific positions are common. South Carolina is a regular contender for “DBU” (Defensive Back University), a title they were ranked second for by CBS Sports a few years ago. The Gamecocks also proudly call themselves “The New DBU.” Additionally, South Carolina is frequently mentioned in discussions about “TEU” (Tight End University), boasting five active tight ends in the NFL, a number that ties them for the most in the league and includes the No. 6 tight end to enter the league this year—adding to an already impressive history.

While titles like DBU, QBU, RBU, and WRU have gained prominence in recent years, one position that hasn’t received as much attention is EDGE rushers. Some might dismiss the notion of calling South Carolina “EDGE Rusher U” as overly ambitious, but when you take a closer look at the statistics, it becomes clear that the Gamecocks are making a compelling case.

The recruitment of 5-star EDGE Zion Elee, who previously stated that NIL deals wouldn’t influence his decision, only adds to the intrigue. Elee’s comments prompted further investigation into how South Carolina, under Defensive Coordinator Clayton White and Defensive Ends/Outside Linebackers Coach Sterling Lucas, has excelled at developing top-tier EDGE rushers.

A thorough analysis of all EDGE rushers drafted into the NFL since 1936 reveals impressive results for South Carolina. The Gamecocks have produced 10 true EDGE rushers, placing them among the top 10 programs in the nation for this position—surpassing schools like Clemson, Notre Dame, Miami, and Penn State.

South Carolina currently has standout draft prospects in EDGE rusher Kyle Kennard, the SEC Defensive Player of the Year and winner of the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, as well as Dylan Stewart, a freshman who is already considered a top-10 pick. The Gamecocks are also actively recruiting elite prospects for the future, including Rodney Dunham, Julian Walker, Carter Meadows, and 2026 commit Keenan Britt, as well as 5-star recruits LaDamion Guyton and Jaiden Bryant for the 2027 class.

Beyond quantity, South Carolina’s EDGE rushers have also posted exceptional career stats, enhancing the program’s reputation:

• 3 First-Round EDGE Draft Picks (including the No. 1 overall pick)

• 1 Top-10 EDGE Draft Pick (No. 1 overall)

• 3 Top-20 EDGE Draft Picks

• 6 All-American EDGE Players

• 11 Pro Bowl Selections

• 5 All-Pro Selections

• Awards like the Ted Hendricks Award, Bronko Nagurski Trophy, and SEC Defensive Player of the Year

Key Players:

• Jadeveon Clowney: No. 1 overall pick in 2014, a 2-time All-Pro, 3-time Pro Bowler, and one of the most dominant defensive players in college football history.

• John Abraham: Future Hall of Famer with 133.5 sacks, ranking 13th on the NFL’s all-time sack list.

• Melvin Ingram: 3-time Pro Bowler and a top NFL player with earnings of $90 million.

South Carolina’s EDGE rushers have also been remarkably successful in the NFL, with roughly 40-50% of recruited EDGE players being drafted. Furthermore, 50% of those drafted in the past 20 years have earned Pro Bowl selections.

As the program continues to develop top EDGE talent, with players like Kingsley Enagbare, D.J. Wonnum, and Kyle Kennard paving the way, it’s clear that South Carolina has a strong case for the title of “EDGE Rusher U.” They’ve already earned a place in the conversation and, in my opinion, should be considered a frontrunner, much like they’ve established themselves as the “New DBU.”