The South Carolina Gamecocks have officially secured the commitment of Purdue transfer wide receiver, adding a proven Power Five playmaker to their 2026 roster. Tuggle, who began his collegiate career at Georgia before transferring to Purdue, confirmed his decision on social media, sharing a post with head coach Shane Beamer and expressing excitement to join the Gamecocks.
Nitro Tuggle
Tuggle was a highly regarded four-star recruit out of NorthWood High School in Nappanee, Indiana. According to 247Sports, he was ranked the No. 102 overall prospect nationally, the No. 20 wide receiver, and No. 2 in Indiana. Rivals placed him as the No. 127 player nationally, No. 23 receiver, and No. 3 in the state, highlighting his elite potential coming out of high school.
After starting his college career at Georgia, where he appeared in eight games as a freshman and recorded three catches for 34 yards, Tuggle transferred to Purdue for the 2025 season. He became a key contributor in the Boilermakers’ offense, catching 34 passes for 500 yards and four touchdowns, finishing second on the team in receiving yards. His average of 14.7 yards per catch and ability to make contested catches demonstrate his reliability and playmaking ability.
With two years of eligibility remaining, Tuggle provides South Carolina an immediate offensive boost and a seasoned Power Five-caliber target for their passing game. His experience at both Georgia and Purdue positions him to step in and make an impact while continuing his development under the Gamecocks’ coaching staff.
