Breaking News: 5-Star TE James Flanigan, Standing 8’6″ and Weighing 250 Pounds, Shocks College Football by Decommitting from Notre Dame and Choosing South Carolina Gamecocks Over Penn State and More
Jaw-dropping twist that has sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, 5-star tight end James Flanigan, the towering 8-foot-6, 250-pound athletic phenomenon, has officially decommitted from Notre Dame and committed to the South Carolina Gamecocks. The announcement has sparked massive reactions across the nation, especially as Flanigan was widely expected to be a cornerstone in the Fighting Irish’s offensive future. Now, his decision to join Shane Beamer’s program is being hailed as one of the most stunning recruiting victories of the year.
Flanigan, a generational talent with unmatched physical dimensions and athleticism, had long been considered a lock for Notre Dame, having verbally committed nearly a year ago. With elite offers from nearly every top-tier Power 5 program, including Alabama, Georgia, Penn State, Michigan, and Ohio State, Flanigan’s commitment carried significant weight. Yet in a sudden move, he rescinded his pledge and turned heads by siding with South Carolina, a team that has now landed one of the most physically dominant high school players in the history of recruiting rankings.
The Wisconsin native explained his reasoning in a statement released Tuesday morning: “South Carolina felt like home. Coach Beamer and the staff made me feel like more than just a player—they made me feel like family. I believe in what they’re building, and I want to be a part of something special.” Flanigan cited the Gamecocks’ vision for him as a hybrid offensive weapon, as well as the culture and campus environment, as primary reasons for the switch.
This commitment is a massive win for South Carolina, which now boasts one of the strongest recruiting classes in the SEC. Flanigan brings with him a rare combination of size, speed, and agility, making him a near-unstoppable force in the red zone and a devastating mismatch against virtually any defender. Scouts have likened his playing style to a cross between Rob Gronkowski and a power forward, often labeling him a “once-in-a-generation athlete.”
Notre Dame fans and coaching staff have been left reeling by the unexpected flip, especially after dedicating extensive time and resources to building a strong relationship with the Flanigan family. Rumors have emerged suggesting that South Carolina’s aggressive NIL package and vision for immediate playing time may have influenced the change of heart. However, Flanigan insists that his decision was purely about “fit, comfort, and family.”
As the Gamecocks prepare to welcome their newest superstar, college football analysts are already revising their SEC predictions, with some forecasting that South Carolina may be on the brink of a breakthrough season. With James Flanigan now in the mix, the buzz in Columbia is reaching fever pitch, and Gamecock Nation is dreaming bigger than ever before.
