Gamecocks Trio Named Freshman All-Americans, Making History for South Carolina Football
January 15, 2025 – The South Carolina Gamecocks football program has reached a historic milestone, as three of its players were named to the prestigious Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) Freshman All-America team for the 2024 season. This marks the first time in program history that three players have received this honor in the same year, showcasing the team’s rising talent under head coach Shane Beamer.
The three standout freshmen are:
LaNorris Sellers – Quarterback
The 6-foot-3, 242-pound redshirt freshman from Florence, South Carolina, was a revelation this season. Sellers completed 65.6% of his passes (196-for-299) for 2,534 yards and 18 touchdowns, demonstrating his precision and poise under pressure. Additionally, he contributed 674 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on the ground. His dual-threat capability earned him the title of SEC Freshman of the Year, cementing his status as a cornerstone for South Carolina’s future.
Josiah Thompson – Offensive Lineman
A true freshman from Dillon, South Carolina, the 6-foot-7, 300-pound Thompson anchored the Gamecocks’ offensive line. Starting all 12 games at left tackle, Thompson protected Sellers’ blind side with remarkable consistency, proving his worth as a reliable and skilled lineman. His contributions did not go unnoticed, as he was also named to the On3.com True Freshman All-America team earlier this season.
Dylan Stewart – Defensive Lineman
Hailing from Washington, D.C., the 6-foot-6, 248-pound Stewart was a force on defense. He recorded 23 tackles, including 10.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks, and added three forced fumbles and two recoveries. Stewart’s game-changing presence on the defensive line earned him recognition as the On3.com Defensive True Freshman of the Year.
A Season to Remember
These three freshmen played pivotal roles in South Carolina’s successful 2024 campaign, which included a 9-4 record and a school-record four wins against ranked opponents. Their performances highlight the strength of the Gamecocks’ recruiting efforts and provide a glimpse into a promising future for the program.
Coach Beamer praised the trio, stating, “This is a proud moment for our program. These young men have shown incredible talent and determination, and their achievements are well-deserved.”
As the Gamecocks look ahead to the 2025 season, the contributions of Sellers, Thompson, and Stewart will undoubtedly remain central to their success, setting a new standard for excellence in Columbia.
