Every offseason, players come and go, some more important than others.

For the South Carolina Gamecocks, arguably the team’s biggest loss will be the departure of offensive guard AJ Cann. The redshirt senior is out of eligibility and will be moving on to the NFL.

Before Cann officially departs Columbia, S.C., let’s take a look at the impact he had and who will be in line to replace him in 2015.

Recruit profile

  • OL/DL prospect
  • Four-star; ranked No. 131 according to 247sports
  • Under Armour All-American

Notable career stats/accomplishments

  • Started 50 of 51 games over four years
  • More starts than any active South Carolina player
  • Second-most career starts in South Carolina history
  • Named first-team All-SEC
  • Named CBS first-team All-American
  • Senior captain

Quotable

“I think we’ll be fine. I don’t think anybody has lost their confidence. I believe in my team. I think they have confidence in themselves. I have confidence in them. I think we’ll be fine.” – Cann after South Carolina’s 3-3 start

What the head coach said about Cann

“He’s been a very good player for us, a four-year starter,” USC head coach Steve Spurrier said. “He’s a wonderful young man and does everything the coaches ask and everything the strength coaches ask also. Never any problems with AJ Cann so hopefully he can end his career on a positive.”

Who will replace Cann?

Shawn Elliott, USC’s offensive line coach, likes to rotate lineman. Heading into 2015, the Gamecocks will be forced to replace both Cann and left tackle Corey Robinson.

Three players — Brock Stadnik, Will Sport or Cody Waldrop — could all slot into Cann’s position at left guard. Stadnik currently is Cann’s backup at left guard, so the transition would be minimal. Sport or Waldrop are all currently at the right guard position, so if its either one of those, it’ll be dependent on which player Elliot believes could slide over to the other side of the line.

Waldrop was expected to be the team’s starting center, but injuries allowed Clayton Stadnik to take over in that role. Waldrop certainly would provide more versatility along the line as he can play both the center and guard position.

Either way, the Gamecocks will be hurting for experience along the left side of the offensive line.