Newberry SC, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Jamel Howse, a four-star tight end from Newberry High School, has officially decommitted from the University of South Carolina after more than a year. At 6-foot-3 and 238 pounds, Howse is ranked as a top prospect nationally. His decision raises concerns for USC, which has 15 commitments in its 2026 recruiting class. Howse is now considering several other programs, expressing a desire for an offense that effectively utilizes his talents. This transition illustrates the changing landscape of college football recruiting.
Columbia, South Carolina – Jamel Howse, a highly-regarded four-star tight end from Newberry High School, has officially decommitted from the University of South Carolina (USC). Howse’s decision to part ways with USC comes just over a year after he made his commitment on October 5, 2024.
Measuring 6-foot-3 and weighing 238 pounds, Howse is considered one of the top prospects in the country. According to the 247Sports Composite rankings, he is ranked as the No. 282 overall player nationally and the No. 13 tight end. Within South Carolina, Howse stands out as the No. 6 prospect in the state.
His departure from USC poses challenges for the Trojans as they currently hold 15 commitments in their 2026 recruiting class, which is ranked No. 17 nationally. Howse’s decommitment raises concerns regarding the stability of USC’s recruiting efforts ahead of the early signing day.
In addition to USC, Howse has received offers from several other colleges, including Louisville, UCF, South Florida, Virginia Tech, and West Virginia. This indicates a competitive recruiting environment for the talented tight end as he seeks a program that can best utilize his skills. Howse has expressed his desire to join an offense where he can receive more passes, illustrating his need for a role that allows him to showcase his abilities more effectively. Recently, he visited Appalachian State on October 4 and plans to return in November for another visit. Appalachian State’s head coach, Dowell Loggains, is familiar to Howse, having previously served as USC’s offensive coordinator.
During his senior season at Newberry High, Howse has put up impressive statistics, recording 32 receptions for 392 yards and 4 touchdowns. Despite his personal success, South Carolina’s overall offensive performance has been lackluster, averaging just 20.14 points per game, with a mere 13 points in conference play. This struggle on offense may have contributed to Howse’s decision to seek opportunities elsewhere, particularly as he looks for a program with a more effective use of its offensive weapons.
Following Howse’s decommitment, South Carolina must now explore options to fill the tight end position in future recruiting cycles or transfers, balancing their priorities while maintaining their current commitments. The situation puts additional pressure on the coaching staff to stabilize the program’s recruiting picture as they prepare for the fast-approaching early signing period.
Howse’s exit serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape of college football recruiting, where prospects continuously assess their options and pursue opportunities that align with their goals, skill sets, and long-term ambitions.
Recruiting Class Overview
- USC’s 2026 recruiting class: 15 commitments
- National ranking: No. 17
- Top in-state commitments: J’Zavien Currence (safety), Sequel Patterson (wide receiver), Zyon Guiles (offensive lineman), Anthony Baxter (offensive lineman), Triston Lewis (safety), Caden Ramsey (tight end)
Jamel Howse Statistical Profile
- Height: 6-foot-3
- Weight: 238 pounds
- Senior season stats: 32 receptions, 392 yards, 4 touchdowns
- 247Sports Composite ranking: No. 282 overall player, No. 13 tight end
- In-state ranking: No. 6 prospect
USC’s Offensive Performance
- Average points per game: 20.14
- Average points in SEC play: 13
Next Steps for Howse
Howse will continue exploring his options with an eye on programs that demonstrate a strong offensive capability, with future visits planned to Appalachian State as he weighs his choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Jamel Howse decommit from USC?
Jamel Howse decommitted from USC because he desires to join an offense that can effectively utilize his skills, expressing that he wants to “go somewhere where I can get the ball.”
What is Jamel Howse’s ranking among tight ends?
Jamel Howse is ranked as the No. 13 tight end in the country according to the 247Sports Composite rankings.
What are USC’s current recruiting class standings after Howse’s decommitment?
Following Howse’s decommitment, USC’s 2026 recruiting class now has 15 commitments and is ranked No. 17 in the country.
What schools have offered Jamel Howse?
In addition to South Carolina, Howse has received offers from several schools including Louisville, UCF, South Florida, Virginia Tech, and West Virginia.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Jamel Howse Jr. Decommits from South Carolina Football Program
Jamel Howse Decommits from South Carolina Football Program
Jamel Howse Decommits from South Carolina Gamecocks
Additional Resources
- 247 Sports: Jamel Howse Decommits
- SI: South Carolina Commit Backs Off Pledge
- The State: South Carolina Football Update
- Clutch Points: South Carolina Loses 4-Star Commit
- On3: South Carolina Football Recruiting News
- Wikipedia: South Carolina Gamecocks Football
- Google Search: South Carolina Gamecocks Football Recruiting
- Google Scholar: College Football Recruiting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
- Google News: South Carolina Gamecocks
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
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