Anthony Addison

Introduction: One of the most under appreciated commits in the 2025 class is Sumter High School EDGE Anthony Addison. The On3 Industry Ranking, ranks Addison as a three-star prospect and the sixth-best player in the Palmetto State for the 2025 class. Standing at 6'4" and weighing 220 pounds, he has been a dominant force on the field, posting impressive statistics over the past two seasons. As a junior, he recorded 96 tackles, 25 tackles for loss, and 6 sacks. By his senior year, he elevated his game to another level, amassing 99 tackles, 21.5 tackles for loss, 9 sacks, 14 quarterback hurries, 4 forced fumbles, and 4 fumble recoveries. Addison credits much of his success to observing Sumter’s loaded defensive line as a freshman, learning from their technique and refining his skillset. Midway through his junior season, he shifted his focus away from individual statistics, embracing the mentality of "practice how you play." This shift in mindset became pivotal in his dominant senior season. One standout moment came during a game against Crestwood, where Addison replicated a play he'd practiced earlier in the week intercepting a screen for a pick-six, demonstrating his growth. Football has always been Addison's first love. He started playing at the age of 7 and has relentlessly worked to develop his skills ever since. Starting in middle school, he and his father attended numerous camps to compete against the best and sharpen his craft. In recent offseasons, Addison has shifted his focus to enhancing his football-specific speed and explosive get-off. He explained that refining and improving these parts of his game “will make way for everything else”. The Gamecocks have a history of success with Sumter prospects including O’donell Fortune, and Addison looks poised to continue that legacy.

Recruiting: The Gamecocks quickly emerged as the frontrunners for Anthony Addison after he received his official offer, and he committed to South Carolina on April 12, 2024, ahead of Tennessee and Duke. Coaches Shane Beamer and Sterling Lucas played pivotal roles in securing Addison's decision. Beamer’s consistent message of wanting to win with players from South Carolina struck a deep chord with Addison. "Growing up in South Carolina, if the head coach tells you that he wants to win with you, that means a lot," Addison shared, emphasizing the significance of Beamer’s commitment to in-state talent. The turning point came after a crucial in-person meeting with Coach Lucas, which bolstered Addison’s confidence in his future with the Gamecocks. "I feel like he’d be able to develop me into a player that can go to the league," Addison explained. "You know how South Carolina does, They all eat and I feel like he’ll be able to help me get to the NFL." The development of South Carolina’s young pass rushers also impressed Addison, as he saw firsthand the production and growth fostered in the program. Beyond the coaching, Addison was drawn to the Gamecocks’ fanbase, calling them "the best in the country" and highlighting his favorite part of college football, where fans come from everywhere to watch you play. By landing Addison, South Carolina not only secured a talented in-state recruit but also reinforced its reputation for nurturing homegrown talent, a crucial element in Beamer’s vision for the program. This commitment is a step forward as the Gamecocks continue to build their foundation, brick by brick.

Strength and skills: Addison's body is a moldable canvas, capable of adding the necessary bulk to transition into a traditional defensive end while remaining agile and lean enough to excel as an outside linebacker. His athleticism is evident in every movement, particularly in his explosive first step, which allows him to close the gap between himself and the quarterback with remarkable speed. Whether he’s lined up as a traditional defensive end or deployed as a boundary stand-up rusher in a wide-nine technique, his burst off the line is nothing short of elite. At this stage of his development, Addison’s most refined skill is his ability to rush the passer. His speed and quickness out of his stance are paired with a polished array of pass-rush techniques that enable him to win consistently in one-on-one matchups. His advanced understanding of leverage and hand usage is beyond his years. He quickly disengages from blockers using an impressive swim move or a club-and-rip combination, creating separation to continue his relentless pursuit of the quarterback. With long, powerful arms that allow him to shed blockers with ease, Addison is unrelenting once engaged, constantly pressuring opponents with his tireless motor. His level of aggression demands maximum effort from offensive linemen on every snap. One of Addison’s most compelling qualities is his versatility. He is a rare talent who can thrive in multiple defensive schemes, making him invaluable at the collegiate level. Whether he’s playing in a 3-3-5 alignment or a traditional 4-3 front, Addison has the skill set and adaptability to fit seamlessly into any defensive system. His ability to defend the run is equally impressive. Addison diagnoses plays quickly and pursues relentlessly, displaying discipline and selflessness when setting the edge. For him, it’s not just about penetrating the backfield but also maintaining gap integrity, forcing ball carriers inside, and creating opportunities for his teammates to make plays. His leadership and team first mentality shine in these moments, illustrating the kind of player who elevates everyone around him.