University of South Carolina defensive tackle Nick Barrett was selected by the Los Angeles Chargers with the fifth pick in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft on April 25. Barrett became the second Gamecock player chosen in this year’s draft and was the 145th overall selection.
Barrett’s selection is notable for both his personal achievements and for continuing a recent trend of South Carolina defensive linemen being drafted into the National Football League. Over five years with the Gamecocks, Barrett played in 51 games, starting in 12, and recorded a total of 72 tackles.
In his final season, Barrett earned several honors including being named a Rex Enright permanent team captain and sharing both the Steve Wadiak Team MVP Award and Most Outstanding Senior Award. He also received recognition from coaches for his strength and conditioning as well as nutrition. During that season, he led all Carolina defensive linemen with 42 tackles, including six tackles for loss and two sacks while starting every game.
Barrett is now part of a growing group of Gamecock defensive tackles making their way to professional football. He is the first South Carolina player to be drafted by the Chargers since Kyle Kennard was taken in last year’s fourth round. In addition to Kennard, other recent Gamecock defensive tackle selections include Zacch Pickens (2023), T.J. Sanders (2025), and Tonka Hemingway (2025).
The continued presence of University of South Carolina players among NFL draftees highlights both individual talent development and ongoing program success.
