South Carolina loses another starter as star defensive back enters 2026 NFL Draft

Fansided | December 11, 2025

South Carolina loses another key defender as a junior DB declares for the 2026 NFL Draft, joining a growing list of early departures from the Gamecock secondary.

Oct 25, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks defensive back Jalon Kilgore (24) tips away a pass intended for Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Germie Bernard (5) in the second half at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images | Jeff Blake-Imagn Images

South Carolina junior defensive back Jalon Kilgore has decided to declare for the NFL Draft, choosing to forgo his final year of college eligibility, joining fellow junior DB Brandon Cisse in turning pro.