Gamecocks gain traction with productive Texas running back recruit

South Carolina doesn’t have a running back commitment in the 2025 recruiting class. The Gamecocks have missed on some targets and continue to communicate with others.

One of those is Jayden Jackson of Franklin, Texas. Jackson (5-11, 215) and some family members drove to Columbia for Friday’s recruiting event.

“It went well. It was fun for me. It was a great experience,” Jackson said. “It was just so fun being around the other recruits and other coaches, getting to meet everyone. It was just great. The most important thing that stood out to me was how everyone was getting along so well with each other and having fun with one another. It almost felt like I was at home with my home family, like I was around a family reunion.”

The visit to USC was the second for Jackson this summer. He also was in for a camp June 14.

New Gamecock running backs coach Marquel Blackwell has known Jackson since last year when he was at Texas A&M, and he offered Jackson for the Gamecocks on April 30. Jackson had plenty of time to talk with Blackwell and head coach Shane Beamer while in Columbia this time.

“Those conversations went well,” Jackson said. “They just told me to be patient and come and visit them whenever I can. I will be back there Oct. 4 (Ole Miss). That weekend I will be there for an official visit.”

As for a possible commitment tot he Gamecocks, Jackson said that bridge has not yet been crossed. It’s possible, he said, the Gamecocks might want to see some senior tape.

“We haven’t actually talked about that yet,” Jackson said. “Hopefully sometime soon one of them will give me a call or I give them a call and we’ll just sit down on the phone and talk about that. There is no other school. I’m just being patient and just waiting to see. For now, South Carolina is my top option.”

Jackson has been one of the most productive running backs in the state of Texas over the last two seasons rushing for 4,500 yards and 65 touchdowns.