Surratt talks about DL and his role

quote:

---

But the departure of Clowney, defensive tackle Kelcy Quarles and defensive end Chaz Sutton after last season has left a major question mark hanging over the position as the Gamecocks prepare for the upcoming season.

Surratt, the lone returning starter on that line, came to SEC Media Days on Tuesday to ease those concerns.

"For the most part, I really just want to get out here and explain to everybody how we're a young team, but we've got guys that's ready to step up here and take roles," said the fifth-year senior. "That's what this whole thing was about, was just to let everybody know that South Carolina is not going to fall off. We got young guys, but they're hungry just like the rest of us.

---

quote:

---

"Everybody has a hunger inside them," Surratt said. "Everybody is out there ready to eat and get out there and just have some fun."

South Carolina head coach Steve Spurrier credits the former two-star prospect from Winstom-Salem, North Carolina, with helping to lead those efforts.

"J.T. Surratt probably will be one of our senior captains when we do voting in mid-season," said Spurrier. "He's played a lot. I think he started about all the games last year. He's a good, solid inside player.

"Defensive end is a position that some guys have got to come around and play. But J.T.'s a good player, excellent leader. He should have a big season."

Surratt has embraced his leadership role in his fifth year with the team. He received the program's Everyday Attitude Award at the 2014 Garnet and Black Spring Game this spring.

"I have to step up and be a leader," Surratt said.

---