:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60997317/usa_today_10254354.0.jpg)
Three South Carolina Gamecocks were honored with preseason All-SEC team selections on Thursday by the league’s coaches.
All-everything talent Deebo Samuel led the charge, garnering nods at first-team wide receiver, all-purpose back, and return specialist. The versatile Samuel, who returns for his senior season after suffering an injury just three games into 2017, compiled 250 receiving yards on 15 catches and three touchdowns (two from kickoff returns).
Punter Joseph Charlton earned a spot on the second team, coming off a season in which he averaged 43.5 yards on 55 punts, boasting a long of 73 yards.
Last but not least, offensive lineman Zack Bailey landed on the third team. Bailey, who will shift to left guard this season after playing tackle in 2017, is one of the Gamecocks’ veteran leaders and opted to return to school over making the leap to the NFL.
The defending champion Georgia Bulldogs led the league with 12 selections, followed closely by Alabama with 10.