Over 20 Gamecocks Survive NFL Cuts, But Several Big Names Didn’t

 

The annual NFL cutdown day is one of the most grueling and emotional days of the year for players, as teams trim their rosters to the initial 53-man limit. For the University of South Carolina, the day brought a mixed bag of news. While a significant number of former Gamecocks secured a place on an NFL roster, several prominent names were either waived or placed on reserve lists, a harsh reality of the professional game.

The Breakdown: Who Made the Cut?

According to a review of NFL rosters, more than 20 former Gamecocks survived the cutdown and will begin the 2025 NFL season on an active roster. This is a testament to the talent pipeline that South Carolina has developed, producing a steady stream of professional-level players. The list includes a mix of established veterans and promising rookies, all of whom have earned their spot in the league.

Among the veterans, several key players will continue to be a force for their teams. Stephon Gilmore, the veteran cornerback and former Defensive Player of the Year, is a cornerstone of his team’s defense. Jaycee Horn, a standout in the secondary, has solidified his position. Javon Kinlaw, a former first-round pick, has been a disruptive force on the defensive line, and Deebo Samuel, the dynamic wide receiver and “wide-back” for the 49ers, is a key part of his team’s offense.

The rookie class from the 2024 NFL Draft also saw success. Xavier Legette, the first-round pick of the Carolina Panthers, made the team’s active roster. Spencer Rattler, a fifth-round pick, secured his spot on the New Orleans Saints’ active roster.

The Tough Calls: Who Didn’t Make It?

For every player who makes the team, there is another who doesn’t, and for a few former Gamecocks, the cutdown day was a tough one. The biggest names to be waived or placed on a reserve list are often the most difficult to see go.

It is a difficult reality of the NFL, a business where teams are constantly evaluating talent and making decisions that impact players’ careers. While some of these players may find a home on a practice squad or a new team, the initial shock of the cut is always a difficult one to process.

The NFL’s cutdown day serves as a stark reminder of the long and difficult road to becoming a professional athlete. While more than 20 former Gamecocks have a reason to celebrate, there are others who are now facing a period of uncertainty. For the Gamecock community, it is a day to celebrate the successes of their former players and to offer support to those who are now facing new challenges.