The South Carolina Gamecocks are eyeing a big offensive boost for the 2026 season as North Texas running back Caleb Hawkins has scheduled an official visit with the program during the NCAA transfer portal window.
Hawkins, a highly productive freshman at North Texas, rushed for 1,434 yards and 25 touchdowns in 2025 and also added 370 receiving yards and four scores, finishing with a total of 29 touchdowns — the most ever by a freshman in FBS history. His record‑setting season made him one of the most sought‑after running backs in this year’s portal class.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer, who enters his sixth season leading the Gamecocks in 2026, has been clear that the coaching staff will use the transfer portal to add “difference‑makers” who can contribute immediately.
Hawkins’ visit gives South Carolina a chance to present its offensive scheme, coaching staff, and role expectations as part of its push to build a more balanced attack. If Hawkins chooses to commit to the Gamecocks, his combination of speed, vision, and scoring ability would provide an experienced and explosive option in the backfield.
The transfer portal window for college football runs from January 2 to January 16, and South Carolina is among the SEC programs actively engaging with top portal prospects to fill key needs on both sides of the ball.
A commitment from Hawkins would be one of the Gamecocks’ most impactful offensive additions of the offseason and could help stabilize the backfield as they prepare for a challenging slate of SEC competition next fall.
