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Shane Beamer's South Carolina loses commitment of four-star LB from the Class of 2026
Four-star linebacker Rodney Colton decommitted from South Carolina's 2026 class on Tuesday. The standout from Newnan High School (Georgia) committed to Shane Beamer's program in April.
Speaking to The State on Tuesday, Colton shared details of a conversation with Gamecocks defensive coordinator and linebackers coach Clayton White. According to Colton, White questioned his commitment to South Carolina, saying he didn’t appear dedicated and seemed more like a “free agent.” In response, the linebacker decided it was time to move on from his pledge.
Colton received offers from other big schools, with recent scholarships from Florida State and SMU. Even just hours after his decommitment, he received an offer from Missouri.
Earlier this week, Colton also met with Ole Miss defensive coordinator Pete Golding and Mississippi State linebackers coach Coleman Hutzler. He revealed that South Carolina had encouraged him to reclassify to join the Gamecocks' 2025 class, but he ultimately declined before decommitting.
As a junior in 2024, Colton had 51 total tackles, six sacks and one interception. According to the On3 Industry Rankings, he is the No. 127 overall prospect, the No. 9 linebacker in the 2026 class, and Georgia's No. 18 player.
Despite his decommitment, Colton might be pursued by South Carolina once again. Auburn, Georgia, Georgia Tech, LSU, Tennessee and Florida are some of the schools to remain in the mix as well. Besides football, he has been active on the basketball court as well and attending multiple camps.
South Carolina's 2026 class update following Rodney Colton's decommitment
Following Rodney Colton's decommitment, South Carolina's 2026 recruiting class now includes five commitments, three of whom are blue-chip prospects. Four-star safety J’Zavien Currence is the crown jewel of the cycle, who is joined by tight end Jamel Howse, edge rusher Keenan Britt, cornerback Peyton Dyer and interior offensive lineman Anthony Baxter.
The Gamecocks still hold the No. 11 recruiting class nationally. They are actively sending offers to multiple targets and also making recruiting visits.
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