Four-Star LB Rodney Colton Jr. Commits to South Carolina

© ALEX HICKS JR./STAFF / USA TODAY NETWORK

Rodney Colton Jr., a four-star linebacker from Newnan, Georgia, has announced his commitment to the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Who Is Rodney Colton Jr.?

Colton is a 6-foot-1, 220-pound linebacker. After his sophomore year of high school Colton has already accumulated 12 FBS offers including eight from the Power Four.

Colton chose the Gamecocks over high-level schools such as Georgia, Auburn, LSU and Tennessee. Last season, unfortunately, Colton had his season cut short due to a season-ending injury, so he wasn't able to continue rack up stats.

Impact of Commitment for Gamecocks

Colton's commitment shoots South Carolina into fourth place in the 2026 recruiting rankings as they bring in their second four-star recruit. This marks the first signing of this class since 2023 commit Landon Duckworth announced his plans to join South Carolina from Jackson, Alabama.

How Quickly Can Rodney Colton Jr. Contribute?

With 2026 being so far away it's really hard to tell. Rodney still has two full seasons to develop his skills even though he has looked like a monster amongst boys at times.

Currently, South Carolina has six linebackers according to the depth chart with five of them being either seniors or graduate transfers.

The Gamecocks have zero linebackers committed for the 2025 class, but with 22 offers sent out there are six in the warm-to-hot range for the interest meter. So, with so few active players for the 2026 team, it is almost certain that Colton can make an immediate impact for coach Shane Beamer.

Scouting Rodney Colton Jr.

In his first year and a half of high school football Colton is already looking impressive by reading plays in the backfield and blowing them up before they have a chance for any gain. With this quick-play recognition, he is able to bust up screens either before the intended pass catcher can get it or right as it touches their hands. He is a sure tackler and is fast enough to track ball carriers down from across the field and can seal the edge on outside runs even when asked to drop back into a zone look.

The only downside is he takes too many unnecessary movements and thinks too much instead of reacting. While off the line of scrimmage, he does a slight hop-step or back pedal before making a move on the play. This will put him a step or two behind where he could be if he could get out of this habit.