LaNorris Sellers Faces Tough Decision Ahead of NFL Draft

COLUMBIA, S.C. — LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina‘s talented quarterback, is at a crossroads as the NFL Draft approaches. Currently projected as a potential top-20 pick, Sellers may need to weigh the benefits of entering the draft against another season in college.

On Nov. 20, South Carolina coach Shane Beamer addressed speculation regarding Sellers’ future, dismissing much of the chatter as “horse garbage.” However, he expressed hope that Sellers might choose to return for another year.

Sellers, a 6-foot-3, 240-pound redshirt sophomore, has struggled this season, completing only 59 percent of his passes for 1,778 yards with nine touchdowns and six interceptions over 10 games. Initially a Heisman Trophy candidate, his performance has stagnated, raising questions about whether he is ready for the professional ranks.

This decline in play correlates with South Carolina’s overall struggles, leading analysts to debate whether he is better off returning to school or declaring for the draft. Sellers has been pressured consistently, ranking as the second-most pressured starter in the Power 4 this season, receiving 139 quarterback pressures, a statistic that undermines his performance.

“It’s tough to assess his growth when he’s constantly under duress,” said one football analyst. “Even elite quarterbacks need a stable environment to succeed.”

Following the firing of offensive coordinator Mike Shula, there was early promise for improvement. The Gamecocks’ offensive scheme aimed to leverage Sellers’ game-breaking ability, but ineffective pass protection derailed those efforts.

With 35 sacks this year, Sellers’ ability to accurately diagnose and respond to defensive strategies has come under scrutiny. He has demonstrated significant potential, yet inconsistency in decision-making has put his value as a first-round draft pick in jeopardy. If he declines to enter the draft, he could explore transferring to another program for his junior year.

With South Carolina finishing the season at 3-7 and not bowl eligible, all eyes are now on Sellers as he considers his future in football.