Longtime starting South Carolina lineman headed to South Beach

At times, it seemed as if offensive lineman Donell Stanley would never leave South Carolina football.

But the powerfully-built member of the Gamecocks roster for six seasons will sign with the Miami Dolphins.

Stanley started for three seasons at either center of guard. He had the opportunity to leave after the 2018 season, but chose to return as a sixth-year player.

Stanley played both guard and center. He broke into the lineup in 2017, after missing most of 2016 with an injury.

He was listed at 6-foot-3, 322 pounds as a senior. He started the year having moved from guard to center, but moved back quickly after the first game when the staff had to shuffle the offensive front.

He was team captain in his final season. He made 38 starts in 50 games.

This story was originally published April 25, 2020 at 7:23 PM.

Ben Breiner

The State

Covers the South Carolina Gamecocks, primarily football, with a little basketball, baseball or whatever else comes up. Joined The State in 2015. Previously worked at Muncie Star Press and Greenwood Index-Journal. Picked up feature writing honors from the APSE, SCPA and IAPME at various points. A 2010 University of Wisconsin graduate. Support my work with a digital subscription