
South Carolina’s star EDGE rusher Dylan Stewart is entering the 2025 college football season with a fiery mindset, encapsulated by his bold declaration: “I like to play football. I like to hit people.” This statement, made in a recent interview, underscores the intensity and passion that have made the 19-year-old a standout talent and a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. As the Gamecocks prepare for a competitive SEC campaign, Stewart’s unrelenting drive and raw athleticism position him as one of the most dangerous defenders in college football, ready to take on any quarterback in his path.
Stewart, a true freshman sensation in 2024, quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. At 6’6” and approximately 250 pounds, his combination of size, speed, and bend off the edge draws comparisons to South Carolina legend Jadeveon Clowney. Posts on X from last season highlight his dominance, noting his ability to beat triple teams, record nine quarterback pressures in a single game against Texas A&M, and lead all true freshmen nationally with 19 pressures. His signature moves—like the ghost rush strip sack and speed-to-power bull rush—showcase a rare blend of technique and explosiveness for a player so young. Analysts on X have already pegged him as a potential first-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft, a testament to his ceiling.
What sets Stewart apart is his mindset. His blunt comment about loving to hit people reflects a gladiator-like approach to the game. When asked which quarterback he most wants to sack in 2025, Stewart didn’t hesitate: “Everybody.” This hunger to dominate every snap fuels his relentless pursuit of the ball. South Carolina’s defensive coordinator has praised Stewart’s work ethic, noting his ability to disrupt plays even when double- or triple-teamed. Clips shared on X show him walking blockers five yards back into the pocket, a feat that left scouts raving about his potential to wreak havoc in the SEC.
As Stewart gears up for 2025, the SEC’s elite quarterbacks—such as those from Georgia, Alabama, and Texas—are on notice. The Gamecocks’ schedule includes brutal matchups, but Stewart’s versatility gives South Carolina an edge. Whether he’s rushing off the left or right side, his 34% pass-rush win rate from 2024 suggests he’ll only get better with experience. Fans on X are buzzing about his potential to break sack records, with some calling him “the next Clowney” for his ability to single-handedly change games.
Stewart’s impact extends beyond stats. His intensity lifts his teammates, fostering a culture of toughness within South Carolina’s defense. As he prepares to “hit everybody” in 2025, Stewart isn’t just chasing quarterbacks—he’s chasing greatness. With the college football world watching, this young star is ready to cement his legacy as one of the game’s most feared defenders.