Free agent signing #22 for South Carolina is OT Armando Nieves (6-7 315) of New Mexico State. His signing was first reported by Matt Zenitz and Chris Hummer of CBSSports.com. Nieves is a native of Phoenix who began his career at the University of Sioux Falls in 2022 before transferring to Hutchinson JC, KS where he redshirted in his first season and played in five games in his second. He joined the Aggies for this past season and was the starting right tackle logging over 600 snaps. According to PFF, Nieves had a run blocking grade of 59.6 and a pass blocking grade of 51.2. He’s the seventh free agent offensive lineman signed by the Gamecocks for this class.
Armando Nieves bio from New Mexico State
PRIOR TO NM STATE
- Spent last season at Hutchinson CC in Hutchinson, Kan., where he played in four games and helped lead the Blue Dragons to an NJCAA National Championship
- Has exceptional size and will add depth to the offensive line room
- Rated a three-star JUCO recruit according to 247Sports
- Also received interest from Iowa State, Marshall and Old Dominion