USC still a possibility for local standout Yafari Werts

With running back Tyren Jones not signing with South Carolina this week for academic reasons, the Gamecocks might turn their interests back to athlete Yafari Werts of Newberry as a way of filling that spot on the offensivee side created by the Jones’ situation.

“I talked to Coach Elliott today,” the Shrine Bowler said Monday afternoon. “He said he’ll get back to me tonight and to be patient, everything will work itself out.”

Werts has been on the proverbial recruiting roller coaster with the Gamecocks. He is committed to Georgia Southern, but USC started to recruit him after Will Muschamp came in and brought him in for a visit Jan. 22. After not being offered that weekend, Werts moved on and visited Appalachian State this past weekend.

He had made up his mind to sign with either the Eagles or the Mountaineers on Wednesday until Monday’s call.

“I’m willing to wait,” he said. “It’s very frustrating. It’s gotten to a point I just want to be left alone. I’m just kind of tired of it and want to make the best decision for me and my family. I know the kind of player I am and with the football in my hand, wherever I go, I’m going to be a playmaker.”

Playing quarterback for the Bulldogs last season and leading them to the 2A state championship game, Werts accounted for more than 2,500 yards and 32 touchdowns.