On Thursday, South Carolina quietly added a big name to their offensive line through the transfer portal. Nolan Hay, a 310-pound lineman from Incarnate Word, has officially committed to the Gamecocks.
He’s been on their radar for a long time, and now he’s finally on board. While his transfer didn’t make major headlines, reports say he turned down offers from three Power Five schools to join South Carolina.
After 1 Visit, Top OL Transfer Turns Down 3 Power Schools
Once reports surfaced that the 6’4″, 310-pound lineman chose the Gamecocks over Oklahoma State, Washington State, and Colorado, the story quickly grabbed attention across college football.
Welcome home, @hay_nolan! pic.twitter.com/PpwaXO0zPY
— Gamecock Football (@GamecockFB) May 2, 2025
What made his choice even more surprising was how quickly it came together. Hay made his decision after just one visit to Columbia. He felt something real with the coaching staff, especially in the strength program.
“The biggest thing for me was I really liked Coach (Luke) Day and the strength program,” he said following his visit. “There are coaches that know about ball, but when you really dive deep, and where they really know your strength and weaknesses, and then they go into it… I think that’s the biggest thing for me.”
The Texas native also praised offensive line coach Lonnie Teasley, who took the time to break down areas where he could improve, something Hay deeply appreciated. “I could do better and everything, and I really appreciate that,” he added.
Hay’s football journey started in Katy, Texas, where he played high school ball before signing with Houston Christian. After two seasons, he transferred to Incarnate Word, an FCS program in San Antonio. There, he became a key player—logging over 1,000 snaps at right tackle last season and earning high marks in pass protection from Pro Football Focus.
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Now, with just one year of eligibility left, he is expected to compete for a starting spot on South Carolina’s offensive line. The Gamecocks already have returning starters at both tackle spots—Josiah Thompson on the left and Cason Henry on the right—but Hay’s versatility makes him a valuable addition.
He even took snaps at right guard last year, giving him a real shot to earn playing time at multiple positions.
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