Landon Duckworth, the four-star quarterback from Jackson High School in Alabama, has been one of the most sought-after recruits of his class. His recruitment has been a rollercoaster, with South Carolina once securing his commitment before he decommitted in June 2024.
Now, as he prepares for his official visit on June 6, the Gamecocks are making a final push to bring him back into the fold.
Duckworth originally committed to South Carolina in August 2023, drawn by the program’s offensive vision under head coach Shane Beamer.
However, in June 2024, he reopened his recruitment, considering other top programs like Ole Miss, Auburn, North Carolina, and Florida State.
His junior season was nothing short of spectacular -- he threw for 3,439 yards and 39 touchdowns while rushing for 648 yards and 12 scores. Per Landon's own X account ESPN has ranked the talent #1 among dual-threat QBs in his class.
Ipso facto, South Carolina has remained persistent in its pursuit of Duckworth.
Recruiting expert Steve Wiltfong recently stated, “Coach Shane Beamer has never relented; he’s been on the gas in this recruitment. He feels comfortable in South Carolina, he’s a fit for the offense.”
The Gamecocks are emphasizing their strong offensive line and NIL opportunities to convince Duckworth that Columbia is the right place for him.
Meanwhile, Ole Miss and Auburn are making strong cases, with Auburn hosting him for an official visit on May 30 and Florida State scheduled for June 13.
The competition is fierce, but South Carolina insiders believe they have the edge.
If South Carolina successfully lands Duckworth, he could be a game-changer for their offense. His dual-threat ability would fit seamlessly into Beamer’s system, as current QB LaNorris Sellers may be unable to fill the QB debt left by Spencer Rattler after he left for the NFL in 2024.
Duckworth may return to the program that first won him over.
However, with other top schools still in the mix, in particular a recent Auburn visit announced on May 1, his recruitment remains one of the most intriguing storylines in college football.