In a move that has energized fans and alumni alike, former South Carolina quarterback Jake Bentley is set to return to the Gamecocks football program—not as a player, but in a special Quarterback Mentorship role. After a brief stint in the NFL, Bentley is coming back to Columbia to help guide the next generation of quarterbacks and offer his expertise to the program he helped elevate during his college career.
Bentley, who spent time with multiple NFL teams including the Indianapolis Colts, has decided to return to his roots and offer his leadership and knowledge to South Carolina’s current quarterbacks.
“This is where I grew as a player, and this program gave me so much,” Bentley said. “Now, I’m excited to help others achieve what I was fortunate to experience. The Gamecock legacy runs deep, and I’m ready to be a part of it again.”
During his time as South Carolina’s starting quarterback from 2016 to 2019, Bentley set several school records and was known for his poise in tough SEC matchups. His leadership helped lay the foundation for the team’s continued growth under head coach Shane Beamer.
Bentley’s role will not involve being a full-time coach, but he will work closely with the quarterback room, helping young players with everything from mechanics to decision-making to leadership—skills that Bentley perfected during his time at South Carolina.
Coach Beamer praised Bentley’s return, saying, “Jake’s understanding of the Gamecock culture and what it takes to succeed here is invaluable. He was a leader for us on the field, and now he’ll continue that leadership from the sidelines.”
Fans are excited about Bentley’s return, viewing it as a full-circle moment for a player who was a key part of South Carolina’s football resurgence. As Bentley reconnects with his old team, the Gamecocks look to continue building on their recent successes and bring a new energy to the quarterback position.
