Former Clemson DT will transfer to Gamecocks

Belk headed to South Carolina

by Tony Crumpton - Assoc. Editor - Fri Jun 08 22:06:25 GMT-04:00 2018

The in-state rivalry just got a little more interesting as Josh Belk has decided on his next college destination.

The former Clemson freshman defensive tackle announced that he will transfer to in-state rival South Carolina according to his Twitter account on Friday night.

"I am thankful for the opportunity I had at Clemson University," Belk posted. "I am most thankful to the University of South Carolina coaches, staff and players for welcoming me into their program with open arms and allowing me the opportunity to play college football at the highest level of completion while being closer to my family. The University of South Carolina is home. I will be spending the remainder of my collegiate career wearing garnet and black in Columbia, SC playing football for Coach Will Muschamp and the USC Gamecocks." #SpursUp #musCHAMP #SEC

Belk released a prepared statement from his attorney last month.

"Josh Belk has been released from Clemson University and the Clemson University Football program upon request made by Josh Belk to Coach Dabo Swinney and the Clemson Tiger Football program. Circumstances of Mr Belk's life have led him to request a full, unconditional release from Coach Swinney that was graciously granted by coach Coach Swinney and the (University) in a timely manner. Mr. Belk thanks Clemson University, Coach Dabo Swinney and the entire Clemson Tiger fan base for their support in his life-altering decision. Mr. Belk requests that he and his family be given privacy at this time to explore decisions related to the next chapter of his life. Thank you and God bless."

Clemson coach Dabo Swinney commented on the transfer through a school news release.

“Josh is a good young man from a great family,” said Swinney. “Sometimes circumstances change, as is the case with Josh. We are disappointed he is leaving, but I enjoyed being around him the past few months. He did everything that was asked of him and had an excellent semester academically. I wish him all the best in the years to come.”

Belk finished an All-State campaign at Lewisville (S.C.) with 116 tackles, 34 for loss, with 11 sacks and seven caused fumbles as a senior.