Shane Beamer's initial South Carolina staff is beginning to take shape in Columbia, South Carolina, but there's still a few openings – even after Beamer made a key move on Wednesday.
Sources confirmed to FootballScoop that Beamer has tabbed Erik Kimrey, a former Gamecocks quarterback and revered high school coach in the Palmetto State, to be his tight ends coach. Kimrey had been head coach at Hammond High School.
The news was first reported by GamecockCentral.com.
Also it's been indicated to FootballScoop that Beamer is expected to retain Mike Bobo, who has one year left on a two-year deal, and Des Kitchings on the offensive side of the ball. Beamer also poached Will Friend from Tennessee's staff earlier this week, reuniting the veteran offensive line coach with Bobo, a longtime colleague of Friend.
Kimrey played at South Carolina under Lou Holtz and has remained a fan favorite in the two decades since his playing career ended with the Gamecocks.
Defensively, sources indicated that Beamer plans to retain defensive line coach Tracy Rocker and outside linebackers coach Mike Peterson.
Beamer's initial staff still has at least one offensive assistant opening and multiple on the defensive side of the ball.
The top position left for Beamer is defensive coordinator, and a source told FootballScoop late Wednesday afternoon that Beamer has targeted an SEC defensive coordinator.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest coaching news.