South Carolina appears to be getting a major boost up front, as offensive lineman Tree Babalade is now reconsidering his decision to enter the transfer portal and is expected to return to the program, according to emerging reports.
After previously informing the Gamecocks of his intention to explore transfer options when the portal opens on January 2, Babalade has since reopened discussions with the coaching staff and is leaning toward staying in Columbia. The shift comes after internal conversations clarified his role moving forward, with the sophomore lineman positioned to remain a key piece of South Carolina’s offensive line.
Babalade, a 6-foot-5, 330-pound tackle from Hyattsville, Maryland, played a significant role during the 2025 season. Initially serving as a backup, he stepped into the starting right tackle spot following an injury to Cason Henry and started five straight games against Kentucky, LSU, Oklahoma, Alabama, and Ole Miss. His performance during that stretch solidified his value to the unit.
Across his career, Babalade has made 15 starts for the Gamecocks, including nine at left tackle as a true freshman in 2023. After a redshirt season in 2024, he returned with added experience and physical development, positioning himself as one of the team’s most versatile linemen.
A former four-star recruit from DeMatha Catholic High School, Babalade was ranked among the top offensive tackles in the 2023 recruiting class and drew interest from several Power Five programs out of high school. With two years of eligibility remaining, his decision to stay provides much-needed continuity and stability for South Carolina’s offensive front.
If finalized, Babalade’s return would mark a significant win for the Gamecocks, keeping a proven starter in place and reinforcing the team’s commitment to building depth and consistency along the offensive line heading into next season.
