4-star QB Landon Duckworth, the No. 6 quarterback in the 2026 class, hit the “Shedeur” pose alongside South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer.
In a moment that captured the essence of college football’s evolving culture, four-star quarterback Landon Duckworth, ranked No. 6 nationally in the 2026 class, struck the iconic “Shedeur” pose alongside South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer during his official visit to the university. This gesture, popularized by Shedeur Sanders, quarterback for Colorado, has become a symbol of confidence and swagger in the college football community. Duckworth’s decision to emulate this pose with Coach Beamer not only highlighted his personal style but also underscored the growing influence of social media trends in shaping the narratives around college football recruits.(sportskeeda.com)
Duckworth’s journey to this moment has been marked by significant milestones. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 190 pounds, he has demonstrated exceptional talent both in the air and on the ground. As a sophomore at Jackson High School in Alabama, Duckworth amassed nearly 2,000 passing yards and 27 touchdowns, coupled with 371 rushing yards and five touchdowns, often in limited action due to early game pullouts. These impressive statistics earned him recognition as a four-star recruit and a top-10 quarterback nationally.(on3.com)
His recruitment journey began early when he committed to South Carolina in August 2023, becoming one of the first 2026 prospects to make a school choice. However, in June 2024, Duckworth decommitted from the Gamecocks, citing a desire to explore all his options and enjoy the recruiting process. Despite this, South Carolina maintained a strong interest in him, with head coach Shane Beamer and offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach Dowell Loggains continuing to build their relationship with Duckworth. Their consistent communication and genuine interest in his development played a pivotal role in his decision to re-commit to the Gamecocks in February 2025.(thestate.com, thecallnews.com, si.com, sporttom.co.uk)
The “Shedeur” pose, which involves flexing one arm while adjusting a watch, became a viral sensation after Shedeur Sanders performed it during Colorado’s 2023 season. It quickly transcended the field, becoming a cultural phenomenon among college football players and recruits. By adopting this pose during his visit, Duckworth not only showcased his alignment with current trends but also his confidence and readiness to make an impact at the collegiate level.(sportskeeda.com)
This moment also reflects the evolving dynamics of college football recruiting, where personal branding and social media presence play increasingly significant roles. Recruits like Duckworth are not just evaluated on their athletic abilities but also on their ability to connect with fans and build a personal brand that resonates with a broader audience. By participating in such viral trends, recruits can enhance their visibility and solidify their place in the cultural zeitgeist of college football.
For South Carolina, Duckworth’s re-commitment represents a significant victory in their recruiting efforts. Securing a top-tier quarterback for the 2026 class provides the Gamecocks with a cornerstone for their future offensive strategies. Moreover, Duckworth’s alignment with current cultural trends can help energize the fan base and attract further attention to the program. His decision to return to South Carolina underscores the importance of genuine relationships and consistent communication in the recruiting process.(on3.com, litemindset.com)
Landon Duckworth’s decision to strike the “Shedeur” pose with Coach Beamer during his official visit to South Carolina encapsulates the intersection of athletic talent, personal branding, and cultural trends in modern college football recruiting. It serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape of recruiting, where recruits are not only athletes but also influencers shaping the narratives of their programs. As Duckworth prepares to embark on his collegiate journey, his story exemplifies the power of personal expression and the impact of social media in the world of college football.
