TLDR: South Carolina has successfully flipped tight end Mike Tyler, from Hammond, from his LSU commitment. Tyler’s signing was announced in a heartfelt ceremony at his school, and he will enroll at USC in June. Tyler originally committed to LSU on August 18, but maintained contact with South Carolina. He attended several Gamecocks games and donned USC gear during Hammond’s championship matchup, hinting at his eventual switch. Tyler praised the Gamecocks’ culture and the way they utilize tight ends, drawing him towards Staying close to home. He will be USC’s 22nd high school recruit in their 2025 class and 11th from South Carolina, a pattern seen before with other recruits like Alex Huntley and Jordan Burch. Tyler brings impressive statistics, having amassed 38 catches for 618 yards, including the decisive touchdown in Hammond’s state championship win. His coach Jon Wheeler has high expectations, noting Tyler’s exceptional talent and potential to shine at the collegiate level.

In a twist of recruiting fate, South Carolina has successfully flipped Mike Tyler, a promising tight end from Hammond, from his commitment to LSU. Tyler, who had initially pledged allegiance to the Tigers, announced his commitment to his hometown Gamecocks at a ceremony at his school. The ceremony was an emotional moment, as Tyler revealed a Gamecocks shirt beneath his sweatshirt, bringing tears to the eyes of those present. His parents, Mike Sr. and Stacey, stood by his side during this significant announcement. Tyler will make the transition to USC’s campus in June to start his college football journey.

Initially, Tyler committed to LSU on August 18th, a decision he later reconsidered. Although South Carolina wasn’t initially on his list of final schools, the Gamecocks’ coaches maintained communication with him throughout the year. This ongoing engagement, coupled with several visits to USC games, including the matchup against Texas A&M and displaying Gamecock pride during Hammond’s state championship game, signaled where Tyler’s heart truly lay. He informed South Carolina’s coaches of his decision after the Missouri game, letting LSU know a few days later.

Tyler mentioned finding a family-like atmosphere at South Carolina, which played a pivotal role in his decision. He admired the Gamecocks’ approach to utilizing the tight end position, an essential factor considering USC’s success with players like Josh Simon who led the team in receiving yards this year. Michael Smith, another player, showed great promise as a freshman, further solidifying the allure for Tyler. The young tight end expressed confidence in excelling at USC, stating the proximity to his family would help him thrive both academically and athletically.

Adding to the ranks of USC’s 2025 class, Tyler stands as the 11th recruit from South Carolina, joining previous notable Hammond recruits such as Alex Huntley and Jordan Burch. His track record boasts 38 catches for 618 yards during the season, including clinching the game-winning touchdown in the SCISA 4A state championship. His high school football coach, Jon Wheeler, praised Tyler’s talent and potential, predicting a bright future ahead if he commits himself fully to the game and maintains his health and dedication.

The Gamecocks, having lost former tight end prospect Preston Douglas to N.C. State, welcome Tyler with high hopes. His athletic prowess, with a physique well-suited for the position, promises to invigorate USC’s lineup. Fans and coaches alike are eagerly anticipating Tyler’s performance and what he might bring to the field next season. The future looks bright for both Tyler and the Gamecocks as they prepare for the upcoming challenges of collegiate football.