Zacch Pickens has been a key member of the South Carolina defensive line for a couple years, and he’s ready to run it back one more time for the Gamecocks.

The former 5-star defensive tackle announced plans to return to South Carolina after he made 38 tackles, including 5 tackles for a loss and 4 sacks during the 2021 season.

Pickens’ return is a big addition for the Gamecocks, who are losing Kingsley Enagbare and Aaron Sterling off the defensive line.

Pickens was a big pickup for the Gamecocks out of high school as part of 2019 recruiting class. He was rated as the top player in the Palmetto state, the No. 1-ranked defensive tackle in the country and No. 8 overall, according to 247Sports Composite.