:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/28107073/201301102_rvr_bb4_155.0.jpg)
South Carolina signed three-star defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth from Mobile (Ala.) Murphy on Wednesday. After fighting off a late push from Mississippi State for the 6'2 285 pound defensive lineman, the Gamecocks were able to solidify Stallworth's commitment after his official visit the weekend of Jan. 17. The Alabama native committed to the the Gamecocks last July over Mississippi State and Minnesota and also had offers from Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida State, Georgia Tech, Kentucky, Vanderbilt, Southern Miss and Tulane. According to the 247Sports composite index, Stallworth is the 49th-ranked defensive tackle in the 2014 class and No. 20 overall prospect in his home state of Alabama.
Hailing from the same high school as former Gamecock and current Carolina Panther Captain Munnerlyn, Stallworth is a very intriguing prospect. He is very fast off the ball and has shown good technique by using his hands to help him shed offensive lineman. He also has a large enough frame to add an additional 15-20 pounds to reach the 300 pound plateau. The Gamecock staff views Stallworth as a versatile lineman who possesses both the power and technique to be effective in the SEC. He shows the ability to play the run and has enough quickness to be an effective pass rusher from the interior. The Murphy standout also excels in the classroom and is a high character guy with an incredible work ethic, according to his high school coaches.
Due to his aggressive play, advanced technique, and non-stop motor there's a chance Stallworth could break into the defensive tackle rotation this fall, though given the depth there it's a long shot. The Gamecocks will return their entire 2 deep at defensive tackle minus All-American Kelcy Quarles. Should the coaches decide to redshirt Stallworth, look for him to challenge for playing time in 2015 with the departure of J.T. Suratt.
