DONE DEAL: No.1 player in Germany committs to Gamecocks over Georgia and Tennessee….
DONE DEAL: No. 1 Player in Germany Commits to Gamecocks Over Georgia and Tennessee following their…..
In a major recruiting win for Shane Beamer and the South Carolina Gamecocks, the No. 1-ranked high school football player in Germany has officially committed to USC, choosing the Gamecocks over SEC powerhouses Georgia and Tennessee.
The Announcement
In a social media post on Monday, 6’5”, 245-pound defensive end Lukas Neumann announced his decision, wearing garnet and black with the caption: “Let’s work. #SpursUp.” The commitment marks a significant moment not just for South Carolina, but for international recruiting as a whole.
Neumann, who plays for the Stuttgart Scorpions U19 team in Germany’s top youth league, has been on the radar of several major programs since breaking out during the European Junior Championships last summer. With a blend of size, speed, and a relentless motor, he quickly drew comparisons to former Gamecock standout Jadeveon Clowney.
Why South Carolina?
In an exclusive interview with 247Sports, Neumann said, “It was about where I felt like family. Coach Beamer and Coach Lindsey made me feel like I was already part of the team. The energy in Columbia is something special.”
Despite strong pushes from Georgia—who offered him a chance to compete in a loaded defensive room—and Tennessee—who pitched early playing time and NIL opportunities—Neumann said his visit to South Carolina sealed the deal.
“I could see myself living there, developing, and winning. The fans, the facilities, the support—it just felt right,” he added.
A Win for Beamer Ball
Coach Shane Beamer has made international recruiting a part of his broader strategy to elevate South Carolina’s national profile. Landing Neumann, who is also ranked among the top 100 edge prospects globally by several scouting outlets, is validation that the approach is working.
“This kid has all the tools,” said Rivals recruiting analyst Charles Powers. “But more importantly, he has the drive and maturity. South Carolina got a real one here.”
With Neumann now officially on board, the Gamecocks’ 2025 recruiting class jumps up several spots in the national rankings, signaling the program’s intent to compete at the highest level.
What’s Next for Neumann?
Neumann plans to finish his academic year in Germany before enrolling at South Carolina next January. He’ll use the time to improve his English and adjust to American life, but football-wise, his goals are clear.
“I want to start as a freshman. I want to make an impact and help bring titles to Columbia,” he said.
For Gamecock fans, this commitment represents more than just a five-star addition. It’s a statement that South Carolina is willing—and able—to go global in the pursuit of talent.
As the Gamecocks prepare for the 2025 season, one thing is certain: the rooster crowed loud in Germany, and the rest of the SEC heard it.
