South Carolina Gamecocks
· 2026-06-29
The South Carolina Gamecocks gained a commitment from Hammond standout linebacker Jackson Ross on June 28.
Ross, who stars in football and basketball for the Skyhawks, decided to stay close to home after considering other offers.
The Gamecocks' recruiting week got a kick start with Ross's public commitment, a significant gain for coach Shane Beamer's team.
Ross's decision was influenced by his relationship with Gamecocks linebacker coaches Clayton White and Trey Money.
Ross's commitment is important for the Gamecocks, who are losing athleticism from the linebacker room after the 2026 season.
The Gamecocks are also on commitment watch for CB Josh Dobson on Wednesday, SAF Davion Jones on Thursday, and OL Nate Carson on Friday.
Ross built a close relationship with the Gamecocks' coaching staff, particularly White and Money.
He said they did a good job of showing him how he fits into their model and scheme.
The Gamecocks' next game is against the Kent State Golden Flashes on September 5, 2026.
Ross is the Gamecocks' 13th commitment for the 2027 class and the first at linebacker.
He had 102 tackles with 22 tackles for loss and eight sacks last season.
Ross's father, David Ross, played basketball for the Gamecocks under Eddie Fogler.
The younger Ross also held offers from North Carolina, Duke, Wake Forest, Virginia Tech, USF, and Louisville.
He chose the Gamecocks over Vanderbilt and Texas Tech, citing his relationship with the coaching staff.
The Gamecocks are looking to fill the void left by departing linebackers, and Ross's commitment is a step in the right direction.
Ross is excited to contribute to the team and follow in his father's footsteps.
He will join the Gamecocks for the 2027 season, bringing his athleticism and skills to the linebacker room.