COLUMBIA, S.C. — In a major boost for head coach Shane Beamer and the South Carolina Gamecocks, star quarterback LaNorris Sellers is reportedly nearing a deal to return to the program for his redshirt junior season in 2026.
According to reports from ESPN’s Pete Thamel and other outlets on Saturday, Sellers has indicated to the coaching staff that he will forego the NFL Draft and remain in Columbia. The decision comes as a pivotal development for a team looking to bounce back from a disappointing 4-8 finish in 2025.
A Season of Regression
Entering the 2025 season, Sellers was touted as a potential Heisman contender and a top NFL Draft prospect. However, the season proved difficult for both him and the Gamecocks. Sellers saw a statistical dip compared to his breakout freshman campaign, struggling behind an offensive line that allowed 42 sacks.
2025 Season Statistics:
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Passing: 2,437 yards, 13 Touchdowns, 8 Interceptions
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Completion Rate: 60.8% (178 of 293)
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Rushing: 270 yards, 5 Touchdowns (Avg. 1.8 yards per carry)
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Total Offense: 225.6 yards per game
These numbers marked a decline from his dynamic 2024 season, where he threw for over 2,500 yards and rushed for nearly 700. The offensive struggles led to the firing of coordinator Mike Shula in November.
New Hope with New Leadership
Sellers’ potential return coincides with the hiring of new offensive coordinator Kendal Briles, who is expected to tailor the offense specifically to Sellers’ dual-threat capabilities. Briles’ system, known for its quarterback-friendly schemes and tempo, is seen as the key to unlocking the explosive playmaking ability Sellers flashed earlier in his career.
While the deal is not yet officially finalized, sources indicate it is in the final stages, providing the Gamecocks with a seasoned veteran under center as they look to rebuild in the expanding SEC landscape.
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