Tucker (Ga.) class of 2017 four-star defensive lineman Aaron Sterling saw the need for players with his skillset at South Carolina and decided to help fill it.

The 6-foot-2, 260-pound Sterling pledged to the Gamecocks during a National Signing Day ceremony at his school, turning down offers from Tennessee, Georgia and N.C. State in the process.

A unique edge-rusher, who could end up at any position along the defensive line, the former Alabama commit has long valued his relationships with South Carolina's Will Muschamp, Travaris Robinson and Mike Peterson.

"After talking with all the coaches, T-Rob, Muschamp, Coach P, I have a good connection with those guys," Sterling told GamecockCentral.com. "Every time I go up there it's a home feeling. I feel great when I go up to South Carolina."

The talented sack artist is ranked the No. 14 defensive tackle in the country by Rivals.com. How will he be utilized in the Gamecock defense?

"Really, everything on the d-line," he said. "Outside linebacker, d-line, d-tackle, they're going to use me all kind of ways."

Sterling believes he has several attributes that will be assets to him at the next level, but he does have some things he wants to work on prior to getting to the next level.

"Get bigger,faster, and stronger," he said. "I can rush the passer, I'm athletic, I have a good low center of gravity. There's a bunch of stuff f I can bring to the table."

Sterling was a long-time lean to Carolina, but said that he was sure of his decision after the weekend.

"It was kind of on Sunday," he said. "After the official, I knew where I was going."