Local linebacker lines up official visit with Gamecocks

Richland Northeast linebacker T.J. Brunson was at South Carolina on Saturday for the Clemson game.

On Monday, USC linebackers coach Kirk Botkin was at Richland Northeast to meet with Brunson. He later went to Brunson’s home to visit with the family, and Brunson scheduled an official visit with the Gamecocks for the weekend of Jan. 15.

“It was fine, everything was cool,” Brunson said of his meeting with Botkin. “My parents got to talk to him. I’m sort of growing fond of the staff that was there (at USC). It just depends on who comes in (as new coach). I’ve heard a whole bunch of names. I’m still open to USC until they figure out who the head coach will be.”

Brunson is still committed to Louisville and also met Monday with Cardinals defensive coordinator Todd Grantham. He will take his official visit to Louisville this weekend. Brunson said he also might visit Purdue in January.

The Shrine Bowl selection finished his season with around 140 total tackles.

Putnam still committed

USC offensive line commitment Will Putnam of Harrisburg, N.C., was back in Columbia Saturday for the Clemson game.

“I’m still committed and I’m very interested in who South Carolina declares as the new head coach,” Putnam said.

Putnam, who also strongly considered Virginia Tech before committing to USC, said he’s not heard from the Hokies since they named Justin Fuente their new coach. He plans to take his official visit to USC in January and said he might take one to Virginia Tech as well.