Jaheim Bell has a new position and new role with Gamecocks: Deebo 2.0
South Carolina and offensive coordinator Marcus Satterfield are set to unleash a new weapon in Southeastern Conference play this fall.
Jaheim Bell, who’s technically listed as a tight end on USC’s roster, is playing what Satterfield calls a “wide back.” Looking for a comparison? Try former Gamecock standout and reigning NFL Pro Bowler Deebo Samuel.
“He’s Deebo 2.0,” Satterfield joked with reporters on Wednesday.
Bell has lined up all over the South Carolina offense since landing in Columbia as part of the 2020 recruiting class. He finished the 2021 season as the Gamecocks’ second-leading receiver behind Josh Vann, while his five receiving touchdowns matched a team-high.
The Valdosta, Georgia native also received his share of work out of the backfield. Bell appeared as a fullback and tailback during Satterfield’s first season at South Carolina, recording seven carries for 40 yards. He also had a 50-plus yard touchdown called back in the season opener against Eastern Illinois.
Bell’s breakout came in USC’s throttling of North Carolina in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl on Dec. 30. He finished the afternoon with five catches for 159 yards and two scores, while adding another three rushes for 21 yards.
“He’s one of the top athletes, football players in the country,” Satterfield said. “... The more that we can develop his understanding, football IQ and the transitions on the field, he can be unstoppable like he was in the bowl game.”
South Carolina is expected to take a step forward offensively after finishing 13th in the SEC in passing offense a season ago. USC added Oklahoma quarterback Spencer Rattler and his Sooners teammate Austin Stogner via the transfer portal in December. James Madison receiver Antwane “Juice” Wells Jr. is also expected to be a big piece of the offense alongside Vann at receiver.
Bell will be the most versatile piece for the unit given his ability to line up all over the field. Head coach Shane Beamer preached throughout last fall the team needed to find ways to get Bell more involved. South Carolina seems to be making a conscious effort to do so once more in 2022.
“We’re gonna lean on him a lot this year,” Satterfield said, “and ask him to do a lot of things.”
