South Carolina isn’t wasting any time when it comes to building relationships with the next wave of elite talent-and five-star cornerback Joshua Dobson is clearly a top priority. On Wednesday evening, Gamecocks defensive coordinator Clayton White and defensive backs coach Torrian Gray were on the recruiting trail, making a key visit to Dobson, one of the headliners of the 2027 class.
Dobson, a 6-foot-1, 175-pound defensive back, recently made a move from Catawba Ridge to Hough High School in North Carolina. And while the jersey may have changed, the buzz around his game hasn’t slowed down.
According to 247Sports, he’s the No. 12 overall prospect in the country and the No. 2 cornerback. The 247Sports Composite rankings are even higher on him, slotting him at No. 3 nationally.
Either way, he’s the top-ranked player in North Carolina-and that’s not a title handed out lightly in a state known for producing serious talent.
This wasn’t the first time South Carolina’s staff has made the trip. Head coach Shane Beamer and Gray were in Fort Mill earlier this month to connect with Dobson in person. The Gamecocks are clearly putting in the face time, and it’s not going unnoticed.
Dobson recently told 247Sports that he’s planning to release a top-six list soon-and South Carolina is a lock to be on it.
“Man, an hour away. The staff loves me,” Dobson said when asked about the Gamecocks.
“Coach Shane Beamer, he makes sure to call me every once in a while. I just love everything about South Carolina.”
That kind of proximity matters in recruiting, especially when it’s paired with a coaching staff that’s been consistent in their approach. Dobson’s comments show a young player who values not just attention, but authenticity. And South Carolina’s staff, led by Beamer, Gray, and White, seems to be striking the right chord.
Dobson’s respect for South Carolina’s defensive coaches runs deep. Back in the spring, he broke down what stands out about both Gray and White-and it wasn’t just about scheme or stats.
“Great DB coach. He puts people in the league,” Dobson said of Gray.
“Builds them as a man and not just a player. It means a lot.”
That’s the kind of endorsement that matters, especially from a player with Dobson’s profile. He’s not just looking for a place to play-he’s looking for a place to grow.
As for White, Dobson was just as complimentary.
“D-coordinator is super smart. He knows what he’s doing with his defense,” he said.
“They had a great defense this season. Sorry it came to an end but it was good.”
That’s high praise from a player who’s seen plenty of programs come calling. And it’s clear South Carolina has made a strong impression-not just with their message, but with the people delivering it.
Dobson’s recruitment is far from over, but South Carolina is right in the thick of it. With visits like these and relationships that are clearly resonating, the Gamecocks are putting themselves in a strong position with one of the best corners in the country.