Former South Carolina football star getting new NFL opportunity

Per an announcement from the organization, former South Carolina football star Darius Rush is on the move again, as the NFL’s Washington Commanders signed him to a deal. He is expected to join Washington’s practice squad.

Rush had signed with the Cleveland Browns earlier this month but did not stick with the franchise. With the Commanders, he joins former Gamecock teammates Deebo Samuel and Javon Kinlaw. Both Samuel and Kinlaw are in their first years with the organization, as well.

Last season, Washington was one of the NFL’s top defenses against the pass. However, the Commanders have lost several rotational corners from that team.

Rush will compete with fellow practice squad corners Antonio Hamilton and Car’lin Vigers to be the “next man up” at the position. Five corners, including former Pro Bowler Marshon Lattimore, are on the active roster, representing the bare minimum needed at the position. With one injury or organizational move, Washington could need a practice squad call-up, perhaps offering Rush an opportunity.

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Following a fifth-round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft, Rush has spent time with the Indianapolis Colts, Kansas City Chiefs (twice), Pittsburgh Steelers, and Cleveland Browns.

During his South Carolina football career, Rush transitioned from a lightly recruited positionless three-star to a defensive star. He began his Gamecock tenure as a reserve receiver but moved to corner. That move paid off, as Rush turned into a two-year starter opposite All-SEC corner Cam Smith. The duo helped USC lead the Southeastern Conference in pass defense in 2021 and a fifth-place finish in 2022. Rush finished his time in garnet and black with three interceptions and 15 passes defended. He was also a key special teams contributor.

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