South Carolina starting offensive lineman to return for fifth season

South Carolina starting right tackle Dylan Wonnum will return for his fifth season in 2022, he posted via Twitter on Friday. Wonnum is a three-year starter on the Gamecocks’ offensive line.

A native of Tucker, Georgia, he was a four-star recruit and the No. 14 overall offensive tackle in 2018 according to On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He chose to attend South Carolina over offers from Georgia, Ohio State, Texas and others.

He was named a member of the All-Freshman SEC team in 2018. The 6-foot-5, 308 pound lineman has also played a few games at left tackle throughout his college career. In 2020, he helped pave the way running back Kevin Harris to become the first South Carolina player to rush for more than 1,000 yards since 2013.

The Gamecocks finished this season with a 7-6 record under first-year head coach Shane Beamer. They defeated North Carolina in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl to close the season as the offensive line paved the way for 301 rushing yards.

Harris declared for the NFL draft at the end of the 2021 season.

In addition to the return of Dylan Wonnum, there is plenty more reason for South Carolina fans to get excited about 2022. The Gamecocks also earned a commitment from Oklahoma transfer quarterback Spencer Rattler. The former No. 1 overall quarterback in the class of 2019, he should provide an instant spark to the offense.

For many, the Gamecocks could be a dark horse candidate in the SEC. Although they will be hard-pressed to challenge Alabama and Georgia, they certainly have the talent to make some noise.

South Carolina is set to open the 2022 season against Georgia State on Sept. 3. After that the Gamecocks will open SEC play with an early conference contest against Arkansas.