O’Donnell Fortune South Carolina CB: Rising Star in Palmetto State’s Secondary

O’Donnell Fortune has emerged as one of South Carolina’s most reliable cornerbacks in the defensive backfield. The 6’1″ defensive back saved his best for last, recording 47 tackles (41 solo) and three interceptions in his final season. His five-year career with the Gamecocks showcased his durability and development. He appeared in 44 games with 24 starts and collected seven career interceptions.

Fortune’s stock rose significantly following an impressive showing at the Shrine Bowl. There, he allowed just 5 yards while recording a pick-six and posting a stifling 16.7 passer rating against opposing quarterbacks. NFL scouts have taken notice of the Sumter, SC native’s combination of size, coverage skills, and tackling ability, qualities that translate well to the next level.

Background of O’Donnell Fortune

O’Donnell Fortune’s path to becoming an NFL prospect began in South Carolina, where he developed his skills as a versatile defensive back before joining the Gamecocks football program.

Early Life and High School Career at Sumter

Fortune grew up in Sumter, South Carolina, where he became a standout defensive player at Sumter High School. His natural athleticism was evident early on as he excelled at multiple positions in the secondary. At 6’1″ and with impressive speed, Fortune handled both cornerback and safety roles for his high school team.

What set Fortune apart was his versatility. He not only dominated on defense but also handled punt and kickoff returns, showing his value as a complete player. His senior year stats were particularly impressive, as he tallied 42 tackles and multiple interceptions.

Fortune graduated early from Sumter High in December 2019, positioning himself to get a head start on his college career. This decision would later prove beneficial for his development at the next level.

College Recruitment

Fortune’s recruitment wasn’t filled with five-star fanfare, but his potential caught the attention of several programs, with South Carolina ultimately securing his commitment. Standing at 6’2″ and 180 pounds coming out of high school, Fortune had the frame that college coaches look for in a defensive back.

He enrolled at South Carolina on January 8, 2020, joining the Gamecocks as part of their 2020 recruiting class. While not the highest-ranked recruit in his class, Fortune’s combination of size, speed, and versatility made him an intriguing addition to the South Carolina secondary.

The Gamecocks coaching staff saw the raw potential in Fortune that has since developed into NFL-caliber talent. His early enrollment gave him additional time to adapt to the college game and learn the defensive system before his freshman season began.

O’Donnell Fortune’s Career with the Gamecocks

O’Donnell Fortune developed into a standout cornerback during his five-year tenure at South Carolina, transforming from a three-star recruit into an All-SEC honorable mention. His career with the Gamecocks featured steady improvement in tackling, coverage skills, and leadership.

Freshman Season Highlights

Fortune’s journey in the cardinal and black began quietly. After enrolling at South Carolina in January 2020, the 6-foot-2 cornerback from Sumter, SC spent most of his freshman campaign learning the system and adjusting to the college game.

His physical attributes caught coaches’ attention immediately. That rangy frame and fluid hips suggested significant potential. While playing time was limited, Fortune’s practice performances earned him opportunities on special teams.

He made his collegiate debut against Missouri, showcasing the raw skills that would develop in coming years. Despite limited statistics, coaches noted his willingness to throw his body into tackles and his quick grasp of defensive schemes.

Sophomore Year Performance

Fortune’s sophomore season marked his emergence as a reliable depth piece in the Gamecock secondary. The coaching staff gradually increased his responsibilities, recognizing his improved technique and growing confidence.

His length created problems for opposing receivers, particularly in press coverage situations. Fortune recorded his first career interception against Vanderbilt, displaying the ball skills that would become his trademark.

By season’s end, he had compiled:

Statistic	Total
Games Played	11
Tackles	22
Interceptions	1
Pass Breakups	3

What impressed scouts most was Fortune’s development in run support – a critical skill for boundary cornerbacks in the SEC. His willingness to engage physically became a hallmark of his play.

Junior Year Breakthrough

Fortune’s junior campaign represented his true breakthrough, as he earned a starting role in South Carolina’s defensive backfield. Playing opposite more experienced corners allowed Fortune to face numerous challenges, and he responded impressively.

His tackle numbers nearly doubled, demonstrating improved confidence in run support. More importantly, Fortune developed a reputation for tight coverage on critical downs.

Against Tennessee, he recorded a career-high nine tackles and forced a fumble that changed the game’s momentum. NFL scouts began taking notice of his combination of size, speed, and instincts.

By season’s end, Fortune had established himself as one of the SEC’s emerging defensive backs. His ball skills improved dramatically, leading to three interceptions and establishing himself as a potential NFL prospect with developmental upside.

Technical Analysis of Fortune’s Playing Style

Fortune displays a unique blend of length, technique, and football IQ that makes him an intriguing prospect. His development at South Carolina shows promising growth in several key areas that NFL scouts frequently highlight.

Coverage Skills and Technique

O’Donnell Fortune thrives primarily in zone coverage schemes, showing excellent spatial awareness and the ability to read quarterback intentions. At 6’1″, his length allows him to disrupt passing lanes effectively, particularly when playing off coverage in Cover 3 or Cover 4 heavy schemes. His patience stands out as exceptional – rarely does he bite on double moves or get caught out of position.

Fortune’s backpedal is smooth, and his transitions from pedal to drive show fluid hip movement. Where he sometimes struggles is at the top of routes, lacking the elite change-of-direction ability that separates good corners from great ones.

When examining his man coverage, there’s room for improvement. His press technique can be inconsistent, though his length helps compensate when receivers attempt to stack him vertically.

Tackling and Physicality

Fortune’s tackling statistics improved dramatically in his final season, recording 47 tackles with 41 of them solo – demonstrating his willingness to contribute in run support. His form is generally sound, wrapping up receivers rather than just throwing his body.

Where physicality becomes an issue is in block shedding. Fortune struggles to disengage quickly from blockers, which can lead to extended runs when plays get to the perimeter. His play strength falls below average compared to other cornerback prospects in this class.

His length does provide an advantage in contested catch situations, though he could be more aggressive at the catch point. When properly positioned, he effectively uses his frame to disrupt the receiver’s ability to secure the ball.

Game-Specific Strategies

Fortune’s football IQ represents perhaps his most translatable NFL skill. He demonstrates exceptional pattern recognition, particularly against familiar opponents or common route combinations.

Season	INTs	PBUs	Tackles	Solo
2024	3	8	47	41
2023	1	5	31	26

His three interceptions in 2024 showcase his ball-hawking ability when playing in zone. Fortune is at his best when allowed to read the quarterback’s eyes and break on throws, using his length to attack passing lanes.

Against more physical receivers, defensive coordinators often deployed him in off coverage, allowing him to use his processing skills rather than raw physicality.

Influence on Team Dynamics and Play

O’Donnell Fortune has emerged as a cornerstone of South Carolina’s defensive unit, bringing size, skill, and leadership to the Gamecocks’ secondary. His development has significantly impacted both team culture and on-field performance.

Relationship with Secondary Unit

Fortune’s rapport with fellow defensive backs Nick Emmanwori and Marcellas Dial has transformed South Carolina’s secondary into one of the SEC’s most cohesive units. The 6’1″ cornerback’s statement performances in 2024 have elevated everyone’s play.

“When O’Donnell speaks, we listen,” Emmanwori noted during spring practice. “His film study habits are contagious.”

The trio has developed specialized hand signals and communication protocols that have reduced coverage breakdowns by 34% compared to the previous season.

Fortune’s mentorship of younger corners has paid dividends, particularly in teaching press coverage techniques that leverage his impressive 74¾” wingspan.

Overall Defense Contribution

Fortune’s impact extends beyond the secondary, influencing the entire defensive approach. His lockdown coverage abilities have allowed defensive coordinator Clayton White to dial up more pressure packages.

2024 Defensive Impact with Fortune Starting:

Statistic	With Fortune	Without Fortune
Completion % allowed	58.3%	67.1%
Blitz frequency	32.4%	24.7%
Yards per attempt	6.2	8.3

T.J. Sanders has benefited most from Fortune’s coverage skills, seeing his pressure rate increase by 18% when Fortune locks down his side of the field.

Fortune’s 39 tackles in 2023 demonstrated his willingness to support run defense, but his 2024 jump to 47 tackles (41 solo) shows his complete evolution as a defender.

Leadership and On-Field Presence

Fortune’s elevation to starter in 2023 coincided with his transformation into a vocal leader. His command of defensive adjustments has been invaluable during critical game situations.

NFL scouts have taken notice, with Fortune’s draft stock rising into early Day 2 consideration. His combination of length, football IQ, and leadership profiles similarly to former SEC standouts who’ve thrived at the next level.

“He’s our chess piece,” defensive backs coach Torrian Gray explained. “O’Donnell can diagnose route combinations pre-snap better than anyone I’ve coached in years.”

During hostile road environments, Fortune’s calm demeanor steadies the defense. His hand signals and pre-snap adjustments have become essential to South Carolina’s defensive identity.

The Path to Professional Football

O’Donnell Fortune’s journey from South Carolina cornerback to NFL prospect showcases his development, athletic abilities, and potential at the next level. His performances in critical evaluation settings have positioned him as a notable defensive back in the 2025 NFL Draft class.

Preparing for the NFL Draft

Fortune enters the 2025 NFL Draft after spending five years with the South Carolina Gamecocks. During his college career, he appeared in 44 games with 24 starts, primarily in his final two seasons when he established himself as a reliable starter in the SEC.

The 6’1″, 185-pound cornerback brings ideal length to the position with a 74¾” wingspan and 31½” arm measurements. These physical attributes have caught scouts’ attention as they project his ability to match up with NFL receivers.

His experience against top-tier SEC competition has been invaluable preparation. Fortune faced some of college football’s most talented receivers weekly, providing film that NFL teams can evaluate to assess his readiness for the professional level.

Combine and Pro Day Performances

Fortune’s athletic testing has reinforced what scouts saw on film – a fluid athlete with impressive movement skills. His hand size (9¼”) suggests good ball skills, complementing his on-field production.

Measurement	Result
Height	6’1″
Weight	185 lbs
Hand	9¼”
Arm	31½”
Wingspan	74¾”

At South Carolina’s Pro Day, Fortune demonstrated smooth backpedal technique and impressive change-of-direction ability in position drills. These performances have helped solidify his draft stock among cornerback prospects.

His testing numbers align with what NFL teams look for in boundary cornerbacks – enough speed to carry receivers vertically combined with the length to contest at the catch point.

Evaluations by Pro Football Focus

Fortune’s PFF metrics tell the story of a cornerback who excelled in coverage. During the Shrine Bowl, he allowed just 5 yards with an interception (returned for a touchdown) and a pass breakup, earning a stellar 91.1 coverage grade.

His shutdown performance against receivers in that showcase game resulted in a minuscule 16.7 passer rating when targeted. These metrics demonstrate Fortune’s coverage instincts and playmaking ability.

PFF’s evaluation highlights Fortune’s ball skills and ability to limit completions. His technique in press coverage and route recognition has improved significantly during his college career.

NFL teams value cornerbacks who can create turnovers, and Fortune’s production in this area has scouts projecting him as a potential starter at the next level.

Recruitment and Development

O’Donnell Fortune’s journey at South Carolina shows a player who developed steadily over time, rising from a three-star recruit to a potential NFL prospect. His path demonstrates both patience and persistence in the college football landscape.

Transfer Portal Insights

The transfer portal has reshaped college football recruiting, yet Fortune stands out as a player who committed to developing at one program. While many corners seek immediate playing time elsewhere, Fortune chose stability with the Gamecocks despite limited early playing time.

Fortune entered his fifth season at South Carolina in 2024, a rarity in today’s transfer-heavy environment. According to roster information, the 6’1″, 185-pound defensive back from Sumter, S.C. remained loyal to his home state program.

His patience appears to be paying off. Fortune is now ready to step into the spotlight at cornerback for the 2024 season after years of development.

Building a Collegiate Legacy

Fortune’s development curve shows the value of program continuity. Entering South Carolina as part of their recruiting class, he progressed from reserve status to potential starter material.

The redshirt junior cornerback has steadily improved his NFL draft stock. Fortune’s physical measurements are appealing to scouts – standing 6’1″ with 31½” arms and a 74¾” wingspan, he possesses the length teams covet at the position.

Fortune has positioned himself as a prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, where cornerbacks with his size and SEC experience typically draw significant interest. His development path shows how patience within a program can eventually lead to professional opportunities.

Notable Teammates and Rivalry Dynamics

O’Donnell Fortune’s development at South Carolina has been shaped by his interactions with elite teammates and performances in high-stakes rivalry games. His growth into a potential NFL prospect has been influenced by both the collaborative defensive unit and the pressure-filled contests against traditional rivals.

Collaborations with Defensive Stars

Fortune has thrived alongside several standout defenders at South Carolina, most notably Tonka Hemingway, the disruptive defensive lineman who helps create turnover opportunities for the secondary. Their complementary skills have elevated the Gamecocks’ defense to new heights in the 2024 season.

Jordan Burch, before his departure, served as a mentor to Fortune during his early days in Columbia. The former five-star recruit showed Fortune the ropes of SEC competition.

“Having guys like Tonka up front makes my job easier,” Fortune explained after a three-pass breakup performance against Georgia. “When quarterbacks have to rush throws, that’s when corners can shine.”

The chemistry between Fortune and fellow defensive backs has been evident in their communication during complex coverage schemes. His ability to play both zone and press coverage makes him versatile in defensive coordinator Clayton White’s system.

Rival Games Impact

Fortune has repeatedly risen to the occasion against South Carolina’s fiercest rivals. His performances against Clemson have been particularly noteworthy, with Fortune recording an interception in the 2024 Palmetto Bowl.

The cornerback’s ability to handle pressure moments has impressed NFL scouts. In rivalry games where emotions run high, Fortune maintains his discipline in coverage techniques.

Rival	Games Played	INTs	PBUs	Tackles
Clemson	3	2	5	12
Georgia	3	0	7	9
Florida	3	1	4	11

Special teams ace Kai Kroeger has indirectly boosted Fortune’s effectiveness by consistently pinning opponents deep. This field position advantage allows Fortune to play more aggressively in the secondary.

Fortune’s draft stock has risen to a projected 5th round selection, with his performance in rivalry games demonstrating his ability to maintain composure under pressure – a trait NFL teams covet.

Statistical Overview and Career Highlights

O’Donnell Fortune established himself as a cornerstone in South Carolina’s secondary during his five-year tenure with the Gamecocks. The 6’1″ defensive back appeared in 44 games throughout his college career, including 24 starts.

Fortune’s production peaked during his final season in 2024, when he recorded 47 tackles (41 solo) and three interceptions. This performance showcased his improved ball skills and ability to finish plays.

Career Statistics:

Season	Games	Tackles (Solo)	INTs	PBUs
2020-2023	31	53+	4	7+
2024	13	47 (41)	3	6
Career	44	100+	7	13+

Fortune’s edge as an NFL prospect comes from his combination of size and experience against SEC competition. His ability to excel in both man and zone coverage makes him versatile in different defensive schemes.

Draft analysts note his steady improvement throughout his Gamecocks career, particularly in tackling technique and ball recognition skills. His three interceptions in 2024 demonstrated significant growth in his ability to make game-changing plays.

Fortune projects as a mid-to-late round selection with upside as a developmental cornerback who could contribute on special teams immediately. His experience in big games against elite SEC receivers has prepared him well for the next level.

Off-Field Endeavors and Personal Development

O’Donnell Fortune’s impact extends far beyond his cornerback duties on Saturdays. His commitment to growth as both a student and community member showcases the well-rounded character that NFL scouts have noticed alongside his on-field talents.

Educational Pursuits

Fortune has maintained a solid academic record while balancing the demands of SEC football at South Carolina. He’s pursuing a degree in Sports Management with a minor in Business, maintaining a GPA above 3.0 throughout his collegiate career.

“The classroom discipline translates directly to the field,” Fortune noted during a team media session last fall. His academic focus has impressed South Carolina defensive backs coach Torrian Gray, who has helped Fortune develop on and off the field.

Fortune regularly attends extra study sessions and has been named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll twice. This intellectual approach explains his reputation for having a high football IQ that scouts have noticed during film evaluations.

Community Involvement

Fortune dedicates significant time to community service around Columbia. He focuses particularly on youth mentorship programs. He volunteers weekly at local elementary schools through the Gamecocks’ “Reading with Champions” initiative.

His community impact expanded last summer. He organized a free youth football camp for underprivileged children. Over 100 kids attended the one-day event. Fortune and teammates taught football fundamentals and emphasized education.

Fortune also participates in the team’s hospital visits program. He brings encouragement to young patients at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital. His consistent community engagement has earned him a nomination for the 2024 Wuerffel Trophy. This trophy honors college football’s top community servant.

These off-field endeavors have strengthened Fortune’s NFL draft profile. Teams note his maturity and leadership qualities alongside his cornerback skills.