Four-star defensive lineman PJ Dean has announced his decision date, marking a key moment for South Carolina’s recruiting efforts and.***…. Read More….

Four-star defensive lineman PJ Dean has officially announced his college decision date, marking a key moment in South Carolina’s 2026 recruiting campaign. The highly touted prospect from West Forsyth High School in Clemmons, North Carolina, is rated among the top defensive line targets in the nation.

Dean recently narrowed his finalists to three schools: South Carolina, Georgia, and Ohio State. After a standout junior season and impressive camp performances, his recruitment has drawn national attention, with each program making a strong push for the 6-foot-3, 260-pound standout.

South Carolina remains a strong contender thanks to Dean’s growing relationship with the coaching staff and multiple visits to Columbia, including an official visit in late May. According to recruiting insiders, Dean described South Carolina as giving him a “home feeling,” signaling the Gamecocks are firmly in the mix.

Dean is scheduled to wrap up his official visits by mid-June, with his decision expected shortly after. His commitment could serve as a momentum-shifting addition for whichever program lands him, especially South Carolina, which is building one of its most ambitious defensive line classes in recent memory.