Big-play defender from Football City, USA reacts to South Carolina offer

Rock Hill (S.C.) Northwestern class of 2026 defender Tamarion Watkins is plenty familiar with the athletes from his hometown who have gone on to star at the University of South Carolina.

So when he camped with the Gamecocks on Saturday and left with an offer in hand it meant a little bit extra.

“It was just kind of like a surreal kind of feeling because, you know, as a kid I always grew up watching people like Jadeveon (Clowney) and Stephon (Gilmore) because they were from the city in my area and watching them go to that school and do what they did,” Watkins said. “It just kind of made me feel like I could get to their level and be better.”

The 6-foot-4, 200-pounder, who plays defensive back, linebacker, and edge-rusher at Northwestern, worked out initially as a defensive back for Torrian Gray but also spent ample time getting hands-on instruction from defensive coordinator and linebackers coach Clayton White.

“I loved it,” Watkins said. “They were all very hands-on, which is what I love with coaches. I love coaches that are able to work with you a little more, just instilling it into you. I also love the way everybody was like ready to work, you know. It wasn’t a lot of jogging around, walking around, everything was fast-paced, and we were really just working.”

So what position do the Gamecocks want him to play? That could be determined at a later date.

“I don’t really think right now we know because, like you said, I do play pretty much everything,” Watkins said. “So I think they’re just offering me based on where they see me fit in their system. I mean, they love my film. That was one thing. My film really stood out to them and obviously my size. They also had gave me some pointers about things I can work on to ensure that my game can translate to the next level.”

While Watkins is just starting to get to know the staff, he had positive interactions with White, Gray, and head coach Shane Beamer.

“Oh, so far I loved it,” Watkins said. “I love the energy and the vibe that they bring. I just love that about all three of those guys.”

Watkins, who racked up 73 tackles, including 10.5 TFLs and 4 sacks as a sophomore to go along with 9 PBUs and an interception, also has an offer from Charlotte.

He has been hearing from Florida State, Kentucky, and Clemson and plans to camp at Georgia this week.

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