JUST IN: Alabama Linebacker Decommit Transfers to South Carolina, Boosting Gamecocks’ Defense

Shawn Murphy, a former Alabama linebacker, has committed to the South Carolina Gamecocks. Murphy began his collegiate career at Alabama, where he played for two seasons, recording five tackles and one pass deflection. In 2023, he transferred to Florida State, where he registered 13 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and one fumble recovery over four games. Murphy now brings his experience to South Carolina, where he will have two years of eligibility remaining.

Notably, Murphy and the Gamecocks are scheduled to face Alabama during the 2025 season, adding an intriguing narrative to the matchup. South Carolina has added another player from the SEC, securing a commitment from Alabama transfer linebacker Justin Okoronkwo on Friday morning. Okoronkwo joins Florida State linebacker Shawn Murphy as the second transfer linebacker to commit to the Gamecocks this offseason.

Okoronkwo, who hails from Munich, Germany, joined Alabama as a three-star recruit in December 2023. Despite changes in coaching staff with Nick Saban’s return and Kalen DeBoer’s arrival, Okoronkwo saw immediate playing time. The 6-foot-3, 228-pound freshman contributed 14 tackles during his season with the Crimson Tide.