Gamecock Digest

Elite Five-Star Edge Carter Meadows Puts South Carolina in His Top 4

South Carolina has a chance to land one of the best players in the 2026 class.
Alex Joyce|
Oct 19, 2024; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks defensive tackle Tonka Hemingway (91) celebrates with South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Shane Beamer after returning a fumble for a touchdown during the first half against the Oklahoma Sooners at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Oct 19, 2024; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks defensive tackle Tonka Hemingway (91) celebrates with South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Shane Beamer after returning a fumble for a touchdown during the first half against the Oklahoma Sooners at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images | Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

2026 five-star edge Carter Meadows out of Gonzaga College High School in Washington, DC, released a top four which included the South Carolina Gamecocks, according to On3 Sports' Hayes Fawcett.

The fifth ranked edge rusher and 34th player overall in the 2026 class released a top four teams on Friday which includes South Carolina, Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State. The Gamecocks are the lone SEC squad on the list for Meadows.

Standing at 6-foot-6 and 215 pounds, Meadows has the prototypical height teams covet at the position, with a lot of room to grow at the next level. He'll need to add weight to play edge in the Big 10 or the SEC, but his athleticism is already at a college level. Here's what On3's Charles Power had to say about Meadows.

"Rangy EDGE prospect with a rare combination of frame and movement skills. One of the most physically impressive prospects in the 2026 cycle. Measured in at around 6-foot-6, 225 pounds as a junior. Has vines for arms that measure around 35 inches to go with large hands. Could easily be a 280-pounder before it’s all said and done," Powers said.

"Pairs the great frame with impressive functional athleticism A fluid, flexible athlete who has excellent bend. Has the natural tools to develop into a dangerous pass rusher down the line. Length pairs with good play strength to result in an effective edge setter," Powers said.

Landing Meadows would give the Gamecocks their first five-star of the 2026 class. This is likely a battle that plays out well into the fall before signing day.

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Alex Joyce
ALEX JOYCE

Alex Joyce is a graduate from the University of Georgia with a degree in Journalism. Alex began his career in television as a news and sports reporter. During his career, Alex has been able to cover everything from breaking news to the game’s brightest moments. His passion for journalism drives him to deliver compelling stories and to connect with his audiences.

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