Former Louisville EDGE Demon Clowney, the cousin of Gamecocks Great Jadeveon Clowney, has signed with the Gamecocks

The Clowney name is returning to Columbia—and not just in memory.

Demon Clowney, a former 4-star recruit and edge rusher who most recently suited up for the Louisville Cardinals, has officially signed with the South Carolina Gamecocks. The move not only bolsters Shane Beamer’s defensive front with a battle-tested veteran, but it also reignites a legacy long intertwined with the Gamecocks’ identity—thanks to Demon’s famous cousin, Jadeveon Clowney.

Jadeveon, a South Carolina legend and No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, left a lasting mark on college football with his unforgettable blend of power, speed, and highlight-reel moments. Now, over a decade later, Demon is ready to carve out his own chapter in Columbia, trading in Louisville red for Gamecock garnet and black.

A Talented Prospect Finds a New Home

Demon Clowney arrives at South Carolina with two years of eligibility remaining and plenty of untapped potential. Originally a member of the 2020 recruiting class, Clowney signed with Ole Miss out of high school, choosing the Rebels over offers from LSU, Georgia, and yes—South Carolina. His high school tape at St. Frances Academy (MD) showcased a long, explosive edge rusher with natural bend and athleticism, earning him top-300 national status.

After two seasons in Oxford, Clowney transferred to Louisville in 2022, where he saw rotational snaps across multiple defensive fronts. Though he didn’t post overwhelming stats—logging 17 total tackles and 2 sacks in 2023—his flashes of power and versatility were enough to attract significant interest in the portal.

For Shane Beamer and the Gamecocks, the decision to bring Clowney home was about more than just legacy—it was about need and fit. South Carolina is in the midst of reshaping its defensive line room after key departures, and Clowney’s size (6’4”, 245 pounds), experience in multiple defensive systems, and hunger for a fresh start made him a prime target.

A Name That Still Echoes in Columbia

Jadeveon Clowney is a name that needs no introduction in South Carolina circles. His hit on Michigan’s Vincent Smith in the 2013 Outback Bowl remains one of the most iconic plays in college football history. A two-time All-American and SEC Defensive Player of the Year, Jadeveon helped elevate the Gamecocks to unprecedented heights under Steve Spurrier, including three straight 11-win seasons.

Now, Demon has the opportunity to add to the family legacy in a different era—one led by Beamer’s youthful energy, player-driven culture, and vision for reestablishing South Carolina as a power in the SEC East.

In many ways, Demon’s decision to join South Carolina is a full-circle moment. The Gamecocks recruited him heavily coming out of high school, but at the time, he chose to carve his own path. Now, after two different college stops, he’s found his way back to where it all began for the Clowney family.

Impact and Expectations

While Demon Clowney hasn’t yet broken out statistically, his physical tools are still tantalizing. He’s quick off the ball, strong at the point of attack, and capable of playing both as a stand-up EDGE and hand-in-the-dirt defensive end. His frame and movement skills give South Carolina’s defensive staff flexibility—something they’ll need as they replace star pass rusher Jordan Strachan and continue developing young talent like Desmond Umeozulu and Jalon Kilgore.

What Clowney adds immediately is veteran depth and knowledge of the grind. He’s played in the SEC. He’s competed in the ACC. He understands what’s required to succeed at the Power Five level. And with a fresh environment and a coaching staff committed to unlocking his best, he could finally be poised to deliver on the promise he flashed as a prep star.

A Reunion Rooted in Purpose

Beyond the Xs and Os, Demon’s arrival in Columbia brings a sense of purpose. He’s not just any portal addition—he’s a symbol of the Gamecocks’ past colliding with their future. And it’s clear that he’s eager to make his own mark rather than simply living in Jadeveon’s shadow.

“Everybody knows what Jadeveon did here. That’s family, and I’m proud of that,” Clowney said in a statement. “But I’m here to be Demon Clowney—to work, to grind, and to help bring something special back to South Carolina.”

It’s that mindset that has the Gamecock faithful buzzing—not just about the name on the jersey, but the heart behind it.

Final Thoughts

In an offseason filled with portal buzz, the addition of Demon Clowney is both strategic and symbolic for South Carolina. It strengthens the edge rotation, adds experience to a young defense, and reconnects the program to one of its most celebrated chapters.

For Demon, it’s a chance at reinvention. For the Gamecocks, it’s another piece in a roster being built to contend. And for fans? It’s a welcome return of a familiar name—with new memories still waiting to be written.