Sumter High Standout Receives Gamecock Offer, Considers Position Change

Franklin Richardson weighs options after South Carolina extends scholarship opportunity.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:47pm

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football player in motion, broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of garnet, black, and white colors.A top in-state recruit considers staying home to play for the Gamecocks, even if it means adapting to a new position.Sumter Today

Franklin Richardson, a standout running back at Sumter High School in South Carolina, has received a scholarship offer from the University of South Carolina Gamecocks. The in-state prospect is now considering whether to accept the Gamecocks' offer and potentially change positions at the college level.

Why it matters

Richardson's recruitment is significant for the Gamecocks, who are looking to bolster their roster with top local talent. The potential position change also highlights the flexibility and adaptability required of modern college football players as programs seek the best fit for their schemes and lineups.

The details

Richardson has been a dominant running back for Sumter High, racking up impressive rushing statistics. The Gamecocks have now offered him a scholarship, presenting Richardson with the opportunity to stay close to home and play for the in-state program. However, the Gamecocks may envision Richardson playing a different position, such as linebacker or defensive back, which could require him to adapt his skillset at the college level.

  • Richardson has been a standout running back at Sumter High School over the past few seasons.
  • The Gamecocks extended their scholarship offer to Richardson on April 1, 2026.

The players

Franklin Richardson

A highly productive running back at Sumter High School in South Carolina who has received a scholarship offer from the University of South Carolina.

University of South Carolina Gamecocks

The football program at the University of South Carolina, a Division I FBS school that competes in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

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What they’re saying

“The Gamecocks have shown a lot of interest in me and I'm really considering their offer. It would be great to stay close to home and play for the in-state program.”

— Franklin Richardson

What’s next

Richardson will likely visit the University of South Carolina campus in the coming weeks to further evaluate the Gamecocks' offer and discuss the potential position change.

The takeaway

Richardson's recruitment highlights the importance of in-state talent for college football programs like the Gamecocks, who are looking to build a roster with top local players. The prospect of a position change also demonstrates the adaptability required of modern college athletes as programs seek the best fit for their schemes.