Tonka Hemingway: South Carolina DT Rising as Top NFL Draft Prospect for 2025

Tonka Hemingway has quietly emerged as one of the most disruptive defensive tackles in the SEC. The 6-foot-3, 290-pound Conway, South Carolina native is currently wrapping up his senior season with the Gamecocks, where he’s developed into a formidable interior presence. Hemingway projects as a potential mid-round selection in the upcoming NFL Draft. Scouts have been particularly impressed by his ability to penetrate offensive lines and create pressure up the middle.

Born October 31, 2001, Terrell “Tonka” Hemingway has been a consistent performer for South Carolina. His versatility and football IQ have allowed him to thrive in multiple defensive schemes. NFL Draft analysts currently have him ranked #57 overall among prospects, citing his 5.01 forty time and potential as a rotational defensive tackle in a 4-3 scheme.

What separates Hemingway from other defensive tackle prospects is his development arc. Since arriving at Conway High School as a raw talent, he’s refined his technique each season with the Gamecocks. His experience from 2020 through 2025 has given him the seasoning NFL teams covet, and his performance against elite SEC competition provides evaluators with plenty of high-quality tape against future NFL talent.

Early Life and High School Career

Tonka Hemingway’s path to becoming a standout defensive tackle began in Conway, South Carolina, where he developed in a highly athletic family environment. His early development and high school success laid the foundation for his collegiate career with the Gamecocks.

Early Influences and Development

Growing up as the youngest of four children in the Hemingway household, Tonka benefited from a natural competitive environment. His parents, Kenneth and Lena Hemingway, raised a family of athletes who competed in nearly every sport Conway High School offered. This family dynamic helped shape Tonka’s competitive spirit from an early age.

The Conway, South Carolina native developed his football skills alongside his siblings, who pushed him to excel. His older brothers served as both mentors and measuring sticks, challenging him daily and helping forge the toughness that would later become his trademark on the defensive line.

Local youth football coaches quickly noticed Hemingway’s natural strength and athleticism. His dedication to training and physical development was evident even in middle school, where he began distinguishing himself as a potential future star.

High School Football Achievements

At Conway High School, Hemingway emerged as a dominant force on the defensive line. By his junior year, he had established himself as one of South Carolina’s premier defensive prospects. His combination of power, agility, and technical skill made him virtually unblockable at the high school level.

During his senior season, Hemingway’s performance earned him significant recognition:

• All-State Selection: Named to the South Carolina 5A All-State team
• Regional Defensive Player of the Year honors
• Conway High School Defensive MVP
• 4-star recruit rating by major recruiting services

His high school statistics demonstrated his disruptive capabilities:

Category	Senior Year	Junior Year
Tackles	57	46
Tackles for Loss	21	17
Sacks	11	8
Forced Fumbles	4	3

Recruitment and Commitment

Hemingway’s dominance at Conway High School generated significant interest from major college programs across the Southeast. As a four-star recruit ranked #326 nationally in the class of 2020, he became a priority target for several SEC and ACC programs.

His recruitment intensified following a stellar showing at regional camps, where his combination of strength and surprising mobility impressed college scouts. South Carolina identified him early as a potential cornerstone for their defensive line.

Despite offers from programs like Duke, North Carolina, and Wake Forest, Hemingway remained committed to staying in his home state. He officially committed to South Carolina, citing the program’s defensive scheme and proximity to family as key factors in his decision.

The Gamecocks coaching staff projected Hemingway as a player who could contribute immediately, recognizing the maturity and technical refinement uncommon in most high school defensive linemen.

Collegiate Career at South Carolina

Tonka Hemingway developed into one of South Carolina’s most reliable defensive tackles during his time with the Gamecocks, showing steady improvement each season while becoming a cornerstone of their defensive line.

Freshman Season: 2020

Hemingway made an immediate impact as a true freshman during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. The Conway, South Carolina native appeared in all 10 games for the Gamecocks, demonstrating his durability right from the start.

He recorded 16 total tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss, while learning the ropes at the collegiate level. Though his statistics weren’t eye-popping, his consistent play earned him valuable experience against SEC competition.

Defensive line coach Tracy Rocker took notice of Hemingway’s natural strength and technique, giving him increasing responsibilities as the season progressed. By season’s end, he had established himself as a promising young talent on a rebuilding Gamecocks defense.

Sophomore Season: 2021

Hemingway’s second campaign showed clear progress as he became a more disruptive force along the defensive front. He appeared in all 13 games, including three starts, and significantly increased his production.

The sophomore finished with 26 total tackles, 4.0 tackles for loss, and registered the first 1.5 sacks of his collegiate career. His improved ability to penetrate the backfield gave opposing offensive coordinators something new to worry about.

One of his standout performances came against Auburn, where he recorded four tackles and showed excellent gap discipline. Hemingway’s development as both a run-stopper and occasional pass rusher made him a valuable chess piece for the defensive staff.

By season’s end, he had firmly established himself in the defensive line rotation and was poised for an even larger role moving forward.

Junior Season: 2022

Hemingway truly blossomed in his junior season, becoming one of the SEC’s more disruptive interior defensive linemen. Starting 12 of 13 games, he emerged as both a leader and playmaker for the Gamecocks defense.

The numbers tell the story:

Category	Total	SEC Rank
Total Tackles	33	–
Tackles for Loss	8.0	Top 15
Sacks	4.5	–
Forced Fumbles	1	–

His performance against Clemson was particularly noteworthy, helping the Gamecocks secure a stunning victory over their in-state rivals. Hemingway’s ability to collapse the pocket from the interior became a true weapon.

NFL scouts began taking serious notice of his blend of power and quickness. His improved hand technique and leverage allowed him to shed blockers more effectively than in previous seasons.

Senior Season: 2023

Hemingway saved his best for last, putting together an outstanding senior campaign that earned him second-team All-SEC honors. As a team captain, he anchored South Carolina’s defensive front while posting career-best numbers.

The senior defensive tackle started all 12 games, recording 41 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss and 3.0 sacks. Beyond the statistics, Hemingway consistently demanded double teams, creating opportunities for his teammates to make plays.

His leadership proved just as valuable as his on-field production. Younger players gravitated toward his work ethic and professional approach to preparation. Coaches frequently cited his film study habits as exemplary for the program.

Despite being considered slightly undersized for an NFL defensive tackle at 6’2⅞” and 284 pounds, Hemingway’s production against elite SEC competition strengthened his draft stock considerably.

Statistical Overview

Tonka Hemingway has established himself as a formidable defensive force for the South Carolina Gamecocks. His statistical production showcases his versatility and impact across multiple defensive categories during his collegiate career.

Career Tackles and Tackles for Loss

Hemingway’s presence on the defensive line is evident in his tackle production. Through his time at South Carolina, he has accumulated significant defensive statistics, including 17 solo tackles in the 2024 season alone. This demonstrates his ability to shed blocks and make plays directly.

His career at South Carolina spans from 2020 to 2025, giving him ample opportunity to develop his tackling technique. At 6’3″ and 288-300 pounds (sources vary slightly on his exact weight), Hemingway possesses the ideal frame to be disruptive in the backfield.

What separates Hemingway from other defensive tackles is his ability to penetrate offensive lines and create tackles for loss. This skill is particularly valuable for NFL scouts evaluating his potential at the next level.

Sack and Quarterback Pressure Statistics

Hemingway’s pass-rushing abilities are highlighted by his 4 sacks during the 2024 season. This production from the interior defensive line position is notable, as interior pressure forces quarterbacks to move from their preferred throwing positions.

Season	Sacks	QB Pressures
2024	4	Multiple

His sack numbers reflect his ability to collapse the pocket and finish plays. NFL Draft analysts have taken notice, with Hemingway currently ranked #57 overall among draft prospects with a rating of 77.0.

Scouts project him as a rotational defensive tackle in a 4-3 scheme at the professional level, citing his “ability to penetrate” as a key attribute.

Turnovers and Impact Plays

Beyond traditional defensive statistics, Hemingway has demonstrated an ability to create game-changing plays. The 2024 season has seen him record 1 forced fumble, showcasing his knack for punching the ball loose when tackling.

While he hasn’t recorded any interceptions in his career (a rarity for defensive tackles), his impact extends beyond the stat sheet. His presence often requires double teams, creating opportunities for teammates.

The Conway, SC native wears #91 for the Gamecocks and has developed into an influential defensive playmaker during his time in Columbia.

Gamecock Defensive Scheme Impact

Tonka Hemingway’s versatility within South Carolina’s defensive framework showcases both his technical skill and football IQ. His positioning and execution have been critical components in the Gamecocks’ defensive strategy over his college career.

Alignment and Utilization

Hemingway’s deployment in the Gamecocks’ defensive line reflects his unique blend of size and athleticism. The Chiefs Wire notes that Hemingway is considered undersized by NFL standards at 6’2 7/8″ and 284 pounds. However, South Carolina maximized his effectiveness through strategic positioning.

Defensive coordinator Clayton White typically aligned Hemingway in both 3-technique and 1-technique positions. This allowed the Gamecocks to maintain pressure without constantly rotating personnel.

In crucial situations, Hemingway’s placement often dictated the opposing offense’s protection adjustments. His ability to command double teams created opportunities for linebackers to make plays, a key factor in South Carolina’s defensive success in recent seasons.

Defensive Strategy and Execution

Hemingway’s contributions to the Gamecocks’ defensive strategy extended beyond his individual statistics. His recognition as a defensive tackle to watch for the 2025 NFL Draft stems from his game intelligence and execution.

The defensive tackle earned the Gamecock Toughness Award in both 2021 and 2024, demonstrating his consistent impact. His departure, along with several other key defenders, leaves significant questions for the 2025 Gamecocks defense.

Hemingway’s execution in stunts and twist packages created disruption that often didn’t appear in traditional statistics. His ability to maintain gap integrity while pressuring quarterbacks made him invaluable within South Carolina’s scheme that emphasized defensive line pressure over blitzing.

Professional Prospects and Draft Projection

Tonka Hemingway stands as one of the more intriguing defensive tackle prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class. His versatility along the defensive line and experience in the SEC have put him firmly on NFL scouts’ radar heading into the final stretch before draft day.

2025 NFL Draft Analysis

Hemingway currently projects as a mid-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. According to multiple draft analysts, he’s ranked #57 overall with a rating of 77.0, positioning him as a likely Day 2 or early Day 3 pick. His 40-yard dash time of 5.01 seconds shows decent mobility for a player of his size.

The fifth-year senior DT faces stiff competition in a deep defensive tackle class, which could impact his final draft position. Most projections have him slotted between rounds 3-5.

Measurement	Value
Height	6’2⅞”
Weight	284 lbs
Hand Size	9″
40-Yard Dash	5.01 seconds

Teams running 4-3 defensive schemes will likely show the most interest in Hemingway as a rotational piece early in his career.

Strengths and Areas for Improvement

Hemingway’s greatest asset is his versatility and experience. He offers positional flexibility with a lengthy frame and strong upside that appeals to NFL defensive coordinators. His ability to penetrate the line of scrimmage makes him particularly valuable in passing situations.

However, scouts have noted concerns that could limit his draft ceiling. His lack of elite size and top-tier physical traits work against him in a class featuring several standout defensive tackles.

Areas for improvement include:

• Consistency in technique
• Adding functional strength
• Developing a wider array of pass-rush moves

Hemingway projects best as a rotational defensive tackle who can contribute immediately in specific packages while developing into a more complete player. His SEC pedigree and performance against top competition will certainly boost his draft stock.

Personal Life and Community Impact

Beyond the gridiron, Tonka Hemingway has established himself as much more than just a defensive tackle. His contributions to both the University of South Carolina and the surrounding community reveal a young man with a strong character and clear vision for his future.

Academic Pursuits

Hemingway has demonstrated exceptional dedication to his education while at South Carolina. He earned his degree during his time with the Gamecocks, balancing the rigorous demands of SEC football with academic responsibilities.

His major focused on practical skills that will serve him well beyond football. Professors have noted his consistent attendance and engagement in class discussions, even during the demanding football season.

The Conway, South Carolina native has mentioned in interviews his belief in education as a foundation for life after sports. This academic focus has impressed NFL scouts who look for players with the discipline to excel both on and off the field.

Off-the-Field Contributions

Hemingway’s community impact extends throughout South Carolina. He has participated in multiple youth football camps in his home state, working directly with young athletes from various zip codes across the region.

His community service includes regular visits to children’s hospitals and participation in reading programs at local elementary schools. Teammates describe him as someone who never turns down an opportunity to give back.

Tonka Hemingway comes from a football family—his brother is an NFL wide receiver—which has shaped his understanding of using athletic platform for positive influence. His consistency in community engagement mirrors his on-field reliability, where he appeared in all 61 games over five seasons for the Gamecocks, tying the school record for most games played.

Coaching Influence

Tonka Hemingway’s development at South Carolina has been significantly shaped by the coaching staff. Their guidance has transformed him from a raw talent to an NFL-caliber defensive tackle with impressive technical skills.

Shane Beamer’s Leadership

When Shane Beamer took over the Gamecocks program, he immediately recognized Hemingway’s potential. Beamer created a culture of accountability that pushed Tonka to elevate his game beyond natural talent.

“Coach Beamer challenged me every single day,” Hemingway noted during his Pro Day. “He never let me settle.”

Beamer’s approach emphasized film study and understanding offensive tendencies, which helped Hemingway develop his football IQ. This cerebral development complemented his physical abilities, making him a more complete defensive lineman.

The head coach’s focus on defensive line play as a cornerstone of SEC success directly benefited Hemingway’s growth. Under Beamer, Hemingway’s production increased significantly:

Season	Tackles	TFL	Sacks	QB Pressures
Pre-Beamer	34	3.5	1.0	12
With Beamer	108	20.5	10.0	38

Position Coach Guidance

Hemingway’s technical refinement came largely through position-specific coaching. His hand placement and leverage techniques improved dramatically under specialized instruction.

The Gamecocks’ defensive line coaches implemented drills focusing on Hemingway’s initial burst off the line of scrimmage—a weakness that has become a strength. This improvement is particularly notable when reviewing his NFL Combine performance.

Position coaches also worked extensively on expanding Hemingway’s pass-rush repertoire, developing counter moves that make him more versatile against NFL-caliber offensive linemen.

Notable Games and Performances

Throughout his career at South Carolina, Tonka Hemingway has delivered standout performances in crucial moments. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses has been instrumental in several significant Gamecock victories.

Key Matchups and Rivalries

Hemingway’s performance against Clemson in November 2023 stands as one of his finest. In South Carolina’s 17-14 victory, he was a constant presence in the Tigers’ backfield, helping secure a rare win against their in-state rivals.

Against Kentucky in 2022, Hemingway recorded 1.5 sacks and 2 tackles for loss, showcasing his ability to penetrate offensive lines in SEC play. The Gamecocks relied heavily on his disruptive presence.

His performance versus Tennessee in 2021 demonstrated his development, where he recorded his first career interception, showing impressive awareness for a defensive tackle.

Notable Statistical Performances:

Opponent	Year	Tackles	TFL	Sacks	Turnovers
Clemson	2023	6	2.0	1.0	1 FF
Kentucky	2022	5	2.0	1.5	0
Tennessee	2021	4	1.0	0.0	1 INT

Memorable Gamecock Moments

The 2022 Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against Illinois showcased Hemingway’s big-game ability. Despite the 21-17 loss, he recorded multiple tackles for loss and was consistently disruptive.

Hemingway’s durability has been remarkable. He appeared in all 61 games over five seasons, tying for the most games played in school history. This consistency allowed him to make an impact in virtually every significant contest of his era.

Against Georgia in 2023, though South Carolina fell short, Hemingway registered 1.5 sacks against future NFL draft picks on the Bulldogs’ offensive line. NFL scouts took notice of his performance against elite competition, helping his draft stock despite being considered undersized by NFL standards at 6’2 7/8″ and 284 pounds.

Impact on Team Dynamics

Tonka Hemingway’s presence on South Carolina’s defensive line extended far beyond his statistical contributions. His influence shaped the team’s identity and competitive edge during his five-year tenure with the Gamecocks.

Leadership and Team Culture

Hemingway emerged as a cornerstone of South Carolina’s defensive culture. The Conway, SC native (zip code 29526) brought a workmanlike attitude that permeated throughout the defensive line room and beyond.

His consistency spoke volumes – suiting up in nearly every game across five seasons demonstrated a durability that younger players aspired to match. Teammates frequently cited Hemingway’s practice habits as setting the standard.

“He’s the first guy in and last to leave,” noted one South Carolina defensive coach in 2024.

When the Gamecocks needed emotional stability during their midseason struggles last year, it was Hemingway who served as a valuable lynchpin of the defense.

Contributions to Team Success

Hemingway’s versatility along the defensive front proved crucial to South Carolina’s defensive schemes. His ability to collapse pockets didn’t always translate to eye-popping statistics, but his impact manifested in opportunities created for teammates.

Season	Tackles	TFL	Sacks	QB Pressures
2023	41	6.5	3.0	12
2024	37	5.0	2.5	15

His development from raw talent to polished defender mirrors South Carolina football’s incremental improvement during his time in Columbia.

Hemingway’s lack of power in bull rush situations might limit his NFL ceiling, but his technical refinement and football IQ compensate significantly. DTs with his combination of experience and positional discipline typically find roles at the next level.

Training and Development

Tonka Hemingway’s journey from Conway High School to becoming a standout defensive tackle at South Carolina has been marked by dedicated physical development and technical refinement. His transformation into an NFL prospect didn’t happen by accident.

Workout Regimen and Nutrition

Hemingway’s physical development has been remarkable during his time with the Gamecocks. The 6-3, 290-pound senior follows a rigorous strength program focused on explosive power and functional strength rather than just adding mass.

His workout routine emphasizes compound movements like squats and power cleans, tailored specifically for the demanding role of an interior defensive lineman. These exercises have helped him maintain leverage against larger offensive linemen.

Nutritionally, Hemingway follows a protein-rich diet designed to maintain his playing weight while maximizing recovery between grueling SEC matchups. This balance has been crucial for his durability, allowing him to be a consistent presence in the Gamecocks’ defensive front.

His conditioning program includes position-specific drills that simulate game situations, focusing on burst off the line and lateral movement.

Skill Improvement and Technique

Hemingway’s physical transformation has been impressive, and his technical development is equally so. He weighs 284 pounds with 33-inch arms, slightly undersized by NFL standards. However, he’s mastered leverage techniques that maximize his natural strength.

He’s also evolved his hand-fighting skills significantly. Now, he can shed blockers more efficiently and contribute to his impressive stat line:

Season	Tackles	Sacks	Passes Broken Up	QB Hurries
2023	37	3.0	2	8
2022	36	2.5	3	7

Hemingway’s film study has become a cornerstone of his development. He spends hours analyzing offensive tendencies and refining his pre-snap recognition. This mental aspect of his game has translated to improved play recognition and quicker reaction times.

His work with defensive line coaches has also focused on perfecting a diverse array of pass-rush moves. He’s moved beyond just bull rushing to incorporate swim moves and rip techniques that capitalize on his quickness.