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Local four-star Julian Walker signs with South Carolina over Michigan

Screenshotby: Kevin Miller19 hours agokevinmillerGC

The early signing period began on Wednesday, and South Carolina football coach Shane Beamer and his staff were hopeful that a big-time flip could be coming their way. As it turned out, they got their wish on Thursday.

Dutch Fork (SC) Irmo product Julian Walker, a four-star EDGE, announced a commitment during a ceremony at his high school to the Gamecocks, flipping from the Michigan Wolverines.

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Walker’s recruitment was a unique one. His father, Jamil Walker, is on the strength staff in Columbia. Because of that, he was long considered a lean to the local school. However, he surprised many with a summer commitment to Michigan after an official visit.

The relationships with the South Carolina program remained strong, though, and not just because Walker’s father is on staff. Defensive ends/outside linebackers coach and defensive run game coordinator Sterling Lucas did a great job in Walker’s recruitment. Head coach Shane Beamer and defensive line coach Travian Robertson were involved, as well.

Walker kept coming around the program this fall, making at least five visits to see the Gamecocks during the 2025 season. That included a surprise official visit in October.

In the end, relationships and proximity won out.

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As a player, Walker is one of the best recruits in the country.

The Rivals Industry Ranking considers Walker to be the No. 72 overall prospect in the class of 2026. He’s also No. 1 in South Carolina and No. 11 nationally among EDGE rushers. He’s even higher in the Rivals300, slotting in at No. 26 overall. That’s potential five-star territory.

At 6-6 and 255 pounds, Walker already looks like an SEC defensive end. His size and athleticism make him a candidate to play early, but he still has a fair amount of developmental upside.

Walker earned selection to the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas and the Navy All-American Game.

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