BREAKING: SOUTH CAROLINA LANDS 4-STAR ALABAMA DB! Gamecocks Score Major 2026 Recruiting Win Over SEC Rivals 🏈

**South Carolina Scores Key 2026 Defensive Commitment from Alabama Standout**

The Gamecocks’ 2026 recruiting class gained momentum this week with the addition of Woodlawn (AL) defensive back KJ Johnson, who announced his commitment to Shane Beamer’s program Monday. The three-star cornerback chose South Carolina over SEC rivals Ole Miss and Mississippi State, plus West Virginia, following an official visit to Columbia on May 30 that sealed his decision.

**Relationship Building Pays Off**
Johnson’s recruitment accelerated after multiple unofficial visits in March and April, coupled with USC coaches making spring evaluations at his school. “South Carolina went above and beyond with the official visit,” Johnson told Phil Kornblut of SportsTalk. “Before going there, it was already high on my list, but that experience nailed it for me.”

**Productive Playmaker Joins Growing Class**
The 44th-ranked cornerback in his class brings proven production, recording 76 tackles, 9 TFLs, and 2 INTs last season. He becomes the eighth commit in USC’s 2026 class, joining recent additions like North Carolina defensive line twins Andrew and Aiden Harris.

Johnson’s pledge could spark further summer recruiting momentum as Beamer’s staff looks to build on a class currently ranked in the top 20 nationally. His coverage skills and physicality (6’1″, 180 lbs) project well in the Gamecocks’ defensive scheme as they continue strengthening their SEC East roster.