South Carolina EDGE Dylan Stewart Agrees to New Deal to Stay with Gamecocks for 2025 Season
In a significant development for South Carolina football, standout EDGE rusher Dylan Stewart has agreed to a new deal that will keep him with the Gamecocks for the 2025 season. The decision has sent waves of excitement through the fan base, signaling the program’s commitment to building a strong defense and its ability to retain key talent as it strives for future success in the SEC.
Stewart, one of the most dynamic pass rushers in the nation, has been a critical piece of South Carolina’s defensive strategy since his arrival on campus. His decision to stay with the Gamecocks for the 2025 season is a massive win for head coach Shane Beamer and defensive coordinator Clayton White, who have worked tirelessly to strengthen the defensive line. With Stewart returning for another season, the Gamecocks’ defense looks poised to continue its upward trajectory.
Dylan Stewart, a 6-foot-5, 250-pound EDGE rusher, has been one of the brightest stars in South Carolina’s defense. Known for his explosive speed off the edge, powerful hand placement, and relentless motor, Stewart has earned a reputation as one of the SEC’s most disruptive defensive players. His ability to collapse the pocket and create pressure on opposing quarterbacks has made him a key part of the Gamecocks’ defensive success.
In the 2024 season, Stewart had a breakout year, recording 10 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, and numerous quarterback hurries. His performance earned him All-SEC honors and garnered attention from NFL scouts, who have been closely monitoring his development. Stewart’s physicality and versatility allow him to dominate in both pass-rush situations and run defense, making him a valuable asset to any defensive scheme.
The decision for Stewart to stay with the Gamecocks for the 2025 season wasn’t made lightly. After an impressive 2024 campaign, he was widely regarded as one of the top EDGE prospects in college football. With NFL teams showing significant interest, many expected him to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft. However, Stewart ultimately chose to sign a new deal with South Carolina, which includes a combination of NIL benefits and an opportunity for continued development under defensive coordinator Clayton White.
In a statement announcing his decision, Stewart expressed his excitement to return for another season at South Carolina:
“I’ve loved my time at South Carolina, and I’m excited to come back for the 2025 season. The coaching staff here has helped me grow tremendously as a player, and I feel like we’re building something special on defense. I know I can continue to improve and help lead this team to great things next season. I’m grateful for the support of the fans and the opportunities this program has provided me. I’m ready to get back to work.”
Stewart’s decision to stay at South Carolina for another season shows his trust in the development opportunities the program provides and his belief that the Gamecocks can contend in the SEC. South Carolina has been investing heavily in its facilities, coaching staff, and overall infrastructure to compete at the highest level, and Stewart’s decision reflects his confidence in the direction of the program.
Stewart’s decision to return for the 2025 season is a major win for the Gamecocks, both on the field and off. As one of the premier pass rushers in the nation, Stewart provides South Carolina with a proven commodity on defense. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses will be critical as the Gamecocks aim to compete with the powerhouse programs in the SEC.
From a leadership standpoint, Stewart’s presence in the locker room will be invaluable. As a player who has experienced significant success in college football, he can mentor younger players and help set a high standard for work ethic and performance. His leadership will be crucial as the Gamecocks continue to develop their defensive unit, which will be a key factor in their efforts to compete for SEC championships.
Additionally, Stewart’s return should have a positive impact on recruiting. High school prospects and transfer portal players are always paying attention to which players are staying at a program, and Stewart’s commitment to South Carolina shows that the Gamecocks are capable of retaining top-tier talent. It also provides a strong selling point for recruits who want to develop in an environment where they can make a real impact.
Shane Beamer and the Gamecocks have been making significant strides in both recruiting and player development, and the return of Dylan Stewart is a testament to their growing success. Beamer has shown that he can not only recruit top talent but also retain them, a crucial aspect of building a sustained program in the SEC.
“I’m thrilled that Dylan will be returning for the 2025 season,” said Beamer in a statement. “He’s been a key part of our defense, and I’m excited to see what he can accomplish next season. Dylan is a tremendous player, and he has a bright future ahead of him. We’re all looking forward to having him back on the field with us.”
With Stewart back for another season, the Gamecocks’ defense will have one of the most dangerous pass-rushers in the country leading the charge. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt offenses will be a huge asset as South Carolina looks to continue its rise in the SEC.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Gamecocks are looking to build on the momentum generated by Stewart’s return. With the leadership of head coach Shane Beamer and defensive coordinator Clayton White, the defense is expected to remain one of the most formidable units in the SEC. Stewart will be a central figure in this effort, and his continued development will be critical as the Gamecocks aim to make a run at an SEC title.
The news of Stewart’s return is just another example of the strides South Carolina is making as a football program. With top talent like Stewart committed to the team, the Gamecocks are positioning themselves for sustained success in the nation’s toughest conference.
Dylan Stewart’s decision to stay with South Carolina for the 2025 season is a major victory for the Gamecocks and their fans. As one of the top EDGE rushers in college football, Stewart’s return bolsters an already strong defense and keeps the program on track for future success. With the continued leadership of Shane Beamer, South Carolina is poised to make noise in the SEC, and Stewart’s presence will be a key factor in achieving that goal.