Shane Beamer's South Carolina receives commitment of 3-star linebacker to the Class of 2025

Three-star linebacker Josh Smith announced his commitment to South Carolina's 2025 class on Tuesday, choosing Shane Beamer's program over NC State, Ole Miss and Vanderbilt, among other schools. He had initially committed to Coastal Carolina in April but decommitted early in the fall to reconsider his options.

The commitment is significant for the standout from Dutch Fork High School in South Carolina, who grew up a Gamecocks fan and whose father is an alumnus.

The 6-foot-2, 230-pound prospect has accumulated 55 tackles and four tackles for loss over eight games this season. With his commitment, the Gamecocks' 2025 class is up to 21 commits, 10 of whom hail from South Carolina.

Smith's commitment follows another major pledge, with defensive back Peyton Dyer committing to South Carolina’s 2026 class on Monday. The Gamecocks' 2025 class ranks No. 20 in the nation and No. 11 in the SEC.

Josh Smith opens up about his commitment to South Carolina

South Carolina offered Josh Smith a spot in September and has since hosted him on multiple unofficial visits. His official visit last weekend, during South Carolina’s dominant 44-20 win over Texas A&M, helped seal his decision.

Speaking with 247 Sports, Smith shared the motivations behind his commitment, saying,

"I'm committing to South Carolina because of the opportunity to ball out for my hometown team and the opportunity to be in the two-deep early. A lot of linebackers on the roster now are leaving after this season so there is a chance I can play early."

South Carolina’s defensive coordinator, Clayton White, served as Smith’s lead recruiter and made a strong impression, while Shane Beamer's approach also resonated with him.

“South Carolina is built on family and love," Smith told On3. "Coach Beamer values those things. He talks about those things and how building his team with guys from this state is important to him."

Smith believes that with Beamer’s leadership and a solid recruiting class, South Carolina could rise to the top of the Southeastern Conference within the next two years. He is set to make things official on the first day of the early signing period on Dec. 4.