Tomiwa Durojaiye's journey to South Carolina has been anything but ordinary, with several SEC and Big Ten programs vying for his talents before he landed with the Gamecocks in January. This move marks another chapter in a career that's seen him suit up for Illinois, Florida State, and more.
Before Durojaiye made his decision, he leaned on some familiar faces. Shawn Murphy and Gabriel Brownlow-Dindy, both former transfers themselves, were instrumental in providing insights into the South Carolina program. A day before his visit, Durojaiye had an in-depth conversation with Murphy, who brought Brownlow-Dindy into the call, giving Durojaiye a comprehensive view of what to expect.
Durojaiye was particularly curious about their personal growth since joining South Carolina. "I wanted to know where they felt they'd improved and how their college careers had progressed," he shared. Their positive feedback was reassuring, adding comfort before his visit.
Hailing from Middletown, Delaware, Durojaiye also sought advice from fellow Delaware native Debo Williams. The reviews he received from Murphy, Brownlow-Dindy, and Williams have proven accurate.
Reflecting on his offseason, Durojaiye described it as "phenomenal," emphasizing the seamless transition and the strong bond he's formed with his teammates. He's been particularly impressed with the coaching staff and the defensive strategies he's been learning.
One standout aspect of his new program is the strength and conditioning regimen. Durojaiye credits Yemi Rodriguez in nutrition for helping him achieve his lowest body fat since college. "I feel like the best version of myself," he noted, highlighting how the training has made him quicker, more powerful, and explosive.
Nutrition has played a key role in his transformation. Consistency in his diet, with meals and snacks at the facility, has been crucial. Even on weekends, he keeps it balanced with options like Cava or Chipotle.
Getting to know his new teammates has been a smooth process. Durojaiye appreciates how everyone shares a common goal: to improve, compete, and enjoy the journey together. This unity and shared mission have made his transition even smoother.
In terms of fitting into Clayton White's defensive system, Durojaiye feels it's a perfect match. The system allows him to showcase his power, explosiveness, and quickness. He admires how the defense produces NFL-ready talent across all positions, and he feels confident in the coaching he’s receiving.
Looking at Durojaiye's impressive profile, his journey through various programs reflects his resilience and adaptability. From his All-Big Ten performance at Illinois to his stops at Kentucky, West Virginia, and Florida State, he's consistently made his presence felt on the field.
In 2025, he earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors, playing in 11 games with eight starts and making significant contributions with tackles for loss and sacks. His career has been a testament to his hard work and dedication, and now at South Carolina, he's poised for a standout final year.