What The Potential Loss Of Jordan Burch Means For South Carolina

Former Gamecock Jordan Burch's entry into the transfer portal could spell significant trouble for South Carolina at the defensive end position.

The South Carolina Gamecocks started the year 2023 with both good and bad news. They will soon be getting more news regarding the decisions of quarterback Spencer Rattler and wide receiver Antwane Wells Jr.

However, one big name for the Gamecocks seemingly made his decision on Thursday, as defensive end Jordan Burch officially entered his name into the transfer portal. While Burch entering the transfer portal doesn't guarantee he's leaving Columbia for good, head coach Shane Beamer and his staff will now have to respond.

South Carolina has already seen two other edge defenders in Gilber Edmond and Hot Rod Fitten enter the portal in the past three weeks. Jordan Strachan, who's coming off an ACL injury, will need a medical waiver approved by the NCAA, and that's if he even decides to come back for one more season of college football. 

When looking at the players currently left from the 2022 roster, Bryan Thomas Jr. holds promise as a speed rusher off the edge. Still, he needs more time to fully integrate himself into a college strength and condition program and Clayton White's defensive playbook. 

Tyreek Johnson is a player that would bring back five years of college football experience in 2023 but has had stretches of his career plagued with injuries that have undoubtedly impacted his ability to be an every-down player.

Thankfully for edge defender and outside linebackers coach Sterling Lucas, help is on the way in Desmond Umeozulu and Monteque Rhames. This duo could provide a perfect blend of contrasting styles with Umeozulu's length and technique when rushing the passer and Rhames's physical and violent presence in rush defense. 

It might be unfair, however, to expect both incoming true freshmen to immediately start for the Gamecocks, something that's usually a tall task for linemen, especially those transitioning from high school football to SEC football.

If Burch's time at South Carolina is over, the Gamecocks must find an experienced edge rusher from the portal. The first window closes on January 15, with the next opening in May after spring practice. 

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