NFL Kicks Off Season With 35 Former South Carolina Players
Week 1 of the NFL Season kicked off with impressive performances from former Gamecocks, including Jaycee Horn, Xavier Legette, and Rico Dowdle.
ATHENS, GEORGIA – OCTOBER 12: Jaycee Horn #1 of the South Carolina Gamecocks at Sanford Stadium on October 12, 2019 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesA total of 35 former University of South Carolina Gamecocks have made their way onto rosters and practice squads for NFL Week 1 of 2025. Their roles and contributions span all eight NFL divisions.
According to an On3.com report, six Gamecocks are on the active roster of the Carolina Panthers, with notable performances such as Jaycee Horn's interception, Xavier Legette's receiving struggles, and Rico Dowdle's rushing yards.
Other standout performances include Spencer Rattler's debut with the New Orleans Saints, completing 27 passes for 214 yards, and Deebo Samuel's impressive game with the Washington Commanders, with seven receptions for 77 yards, 19 rushing yards, and a touchdown.
Some players like Kyle Kennard (Los Angeles Chargers), Gage Larvadain (Cleveland Browns), and Darius Rush (Washington Commanders) were inactive or on practice squads. Others, such as Cam Smith (Miami Dolphins), Joshua Simon (Atlanta Falcons), and Israel Mukuamu (Carolina Panthers), were a part of new teams or practice squads following preseason cuts.
