Good news for Gamecock fans! South Carolina EDGE Dylan Stewart will return for another season with the Gamecocks after signing a new revenue-sharing/NIL agreement, which was confirmed Tuesday. Stewart announced his decision via Instagram, putting an end to months of speculation surrounding his future following coaching changes and persistent transfer rumors saying he was headed to LSU following the hiring of his position coach. The announcement follows quarterback LaNorris Sellers’ recent decision to return for the 2026 season, giving the South Carolina Gamecocks continuity at two of the most influential positions on the roster.
Proven Production on the Edge
Stewart has been one of the SEC’s most productive defenders since arriving in Columbia. A former five-star recruit in the Rivals Industry Rankings, he was rated the No. 17 overall prospect and No. 3 EDGE in the 2024 recruiting class. His transition to the collegiate level has been seamless. Through two seasons, he has appeared in 24 games, making 22 starts, and recorded 56 total tackles, 22.5 for loss, 11 sacks, and six forced fumbles.
His consistent disruption off the edge has earned Stewart All-SEC honors and placed him on the radar of NFL scouts. Stewart is viewed as a projected top-10 selection in the 2027 NFL Draft, which speaks to both his production and long-term upside.
NIL Investment Reflects Market Value
According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Stewart is expected to be among the highest-paid players in college football next season, reflecting both his individual market value and South Carolina’s commitment to trying to become competitive in the evolving NIL landscape.
Per ESPN sources, Stewart is expected to be to among the country’s highest paid players. He’s signed his deal with the Gamecocks to return. https://t.co/NGghxbmB2s
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 23, 2025
Stewart’s return, along with Sellers’ decision to remain in Columbia, provides South Carolina with some stability at foundational positions entering the 2026 season. As roster retention becomes increasingly critical in the transfer portal era, South Carolina’s ability to keep elite talent such as Stewart and Sellers represents a meaningful step toward program growth.