NEWS: South Carolina EDGE Dylan Stewart has agreed to a new deal to stay with the Gamecocks for the 2025 season The true freshman is expected to receive between $1M to..Read more..

 South Carolina EDGE Dylan Stewart Agrees to Stay with Gamecocks for 2025 Season

The South Carolina Gamecocks have secured a major win heading into the 2025 college football season as standout EDGE rusher Dylan Stewart has agreed to return to Columbia. The true freshman sensation, widely considered one of the most promising young defenders in the nation, has reportedly inked a lucrative deal valued between $1 million and $1.5 million. This agreement ensures that Stewart, a cornerstone of the Gamecocks’ defense, will remain a key part of the team’s plans as they continue to build toward success in the SEC.

The announcement not only highlights Stewart’s immense value to the program but also reflects the evolving dynamics of college football, where NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals are becoming instrumental in retaining top talent.

Stewart, a 6-foot-5, 240-pound EDGE rusher from Washington, D.C., arrived at South Carolina with sky-high expectations as a five-star recruit and one of the top defensive players in the 2024 class. He wasted no time living up to the hype, making an immediate impact on the field.

During his freshman season, Stewart racked up 10 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, and numerous quarterback pressures, solidifying himself as one of the SEC’s most disruptive defenders. His combination of size, speed, and technique made him a nightmare for opposing offensive linemen and a game-changer for the Gamecocks’ defense.

Stewart’s ability to dominate at the line of scrimmage, paired with his knack for making clutch plays in critical moments, earned him accolades and recognition from coaches, teammates, and analysts alike. By season’s end, he was widely regarded as one of the top freshmen in college football and a future first-round NFL draft pick.

The agreement to keep Stewart in Columbia underscores the growing importance of NIL deals in today’s college football landscape. With Stewart’s stock rising rapidly, it’s no surprise that he became a target for rival programs looking to bolster their rosters. However, South Carolina’s ability to secure a deal in the $1 million to $1.5 million range demonstrates the program’s commitment to retaining its top talent.

NIL opportunities have transformed the recruiting and retention process, giving players like Stewart more control over their careers while allowing programs to compete financially to keep their stars. For South Carolina, investing in Stewart is not just about retaining a top player—it’s about sending a message to current and future recruits that the Gamecocks are serious about competing at the highest level.

Dylan Stewart’s decision to stay with the Gamecocks is a massive boost for the team as they prepare for the 2025 season. Here’s what his return means for South Carolina:

1. Defensive Leadership: Despite his youth, Stewart has already established himself as a leader on the defense. His work ethic and on-field production set the tone for the entire unit, and his return ensures continuity in a critical position.
2. Building Momentum: Retaining a player of Stewart’s caliber signals to recruits and fans that South Carolina is a destination for elite talent. This move could have a ripple effect, encouraging other top players to commit to or stay with the program.
3. Game-Changing Potential: Stewart’s presence on the edge transforms the Gamecocks’ defense, giving them a player who can single-handedly change the course of a game. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt plays will be crucial as South Carolina looks to climb the SEC standings.
4. NFL Development: For Stewart, staying with South Carolina allows him to continue developing under the guidance of the Gamecocks’ coaching staff. With another year of college football under his belt, he’ll be even better prepared for the jump to the NFL.

Dylan Stewart’s return is about more than just one player—it’s a sign of progress for the South Carolina football program. Under head coach Shane Beamer, the Gamecocks have steadily improved, and retaining top talent like Stewart is a crucial part of taking the next step.

The SEC is one of the most competitive conferences in college football, and building a championship-caliber program requires depth, talent, and consistency. By keeping Stewart in Columbia, South Carolina has shown it’s willing to invest in its future and compete with the conference’s elite programs.

With Dylan Stewart back in the fold, the Gamecocks’ outlook for the 2025 season is brighter than ever. Pairing Stewart with other rising stars on the roster creates a formidable defensive unit capable of making life difficult for SEC offenses.

Stewart’s return also raises expectations for South Carolina, as fans and analysts alike will look for the team to capitalize on its momentum and take another step forward. For Stewart, the 2025 season represents an opportunity to solidify his status as one of the best players in college football and further enhance his draft stock.

The decision by Dylan Stewart to stay at South Carolina is a win for everyone involved. For Stewart, it’s a chance to continue developing in a system that values his talents while securing a lucrative NIL deal. For the Gamecocks, it’s a statement of intent as they build a program capable of competing for championships.

As the 2025 season approaches, one thing is clear: Dylan Stewart’s presence on the field will be a game-changer for South Carolina. Fans in Columbia can’t wait to see what he’ll accomplish next. Welcome back, Dylan—the best is yet to come.