Atlanta DB Marlon Character commits to Gamecocks

Defensive back Marlon Character of Atlanta visited South Carolina on Saturday and spent a lot of time with recruiter Lorenzo Ward and new secondary coach Jon Hoke.

As a result of what he saw and heard, the 6-foot, 180-pound Character contacted Ward on Saturday night and committed to the Gamecocks.

“It just felt right when I went there,” Character said. “It just seemed like Coach Ward really wanted me and will do a lot of big things with me as a freshman. I have a lot of trust in him and I just want to go down there and make some big plays when I get there.”

Character was favoring Auburn earlier in the week after a visit there but left Columbia on Saturday with the Gamecocks out front. He discussed things with his father on the ride back to Atlanta and then reached his decision.

Some things working in South Carolina’s favor were the opportunity to play corner, which Character prefers over safety, and the chance for early playing time somewhere in the secondary. He said he also liked how USC played true freshmen defensive backs last season.

“I will be able to play five positions, and there’s more opportunity to get on the field and showcase my talent,” Character said. “Coach Ward is not afraid to play freshmen at corner. I would be one of the biggest ones he has.”

Saturday’s trip to Columbia was Character’s first since the USC-Georgia game last season.

While he knows the recruiting by other schools will continue, he can’t foresee wavering on his commitment.

“It’s strong,” he said. “I don’t like to second guess things. As of of now, I’m 100 percent committed.”

Character only played in four games as a junior due to injuries. He managed 20 tackles and 2 interceptions in his limited play.

Character is the Gamecocks’ 12th commitment for the 2016 class. He is USC’s fourth pledge this weekend.

This story was originally published July 25, 2015 at 5:52 PM with the headline "Atlanta DB Marlon Character commits to Gamecocks."