Cam Smith headlines list of Gamecocks tabbed with preseason honors by Phil Steele
Eight Gamecocks were listed on Phil Steele’s All-SEC teams, announced on Wednesday.
Junior defensive back Cam Smith led the way, earning a second-team preseason All-American nod as well as being named to the All-SEC preseason first-team.
Smith was second on the team last year with three interceptions and tied for sixth with 41 tackles. He was also listed as a potential first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft in Pro Football Focus’ way-too-early mock draft.
Veterans Josh Vann and Dylan Wonnum are slotted together on the All-SEC second team. Both fifth-years will likely be anchoring their respective position groups this fall, Vann with the wide receivers and Wonnum with the offensive line.
Vann led the Gamecocks with 43 catches and 679 receiving yards last year, good enough to lead the team in both categories.
Senior defensive lineman Zacch Pickens was named to the All-SEC third team along with James Madison transfer Antwane Wells Jr. Pickens was right behind Smith in tackles last season with 38 and also led the team in sacks with four. Wells led the James Madison receiving corps last season, finishing the year with 1,250 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns.
Three more Gamecocks rounded out the preseason honors by being named to the All-SEC fourth team. Oklahoma transfer Austin Stogner, defensive end Jordan Burch and running back Juju McDowell — listed as a kick returner — were all given the honor.
