In a landmark achievement for the South Carolina Gamecocks, five-star edge rusher Dylan Stewart committed to their 2024 recruiting class on August 1, 2023. Stewart, hailing from Friendship Collegiate Academy in Washington, D.C., is ranked as the No. 15 overall prospect and the No. 3 defensive end in his class, making him the highest-ranked recruit to commit to South Carolina under head coach Shane Beamer.

 

Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 245 pounds, Stewart had an impressive junior year, recording 16 sacks and playing a pivotal role in leading Friendship Collegiate Academy to a DCSAA Class AA state championship. citeturn0search1 His athleticism and versatility allow him to excel both as a pass rusher and in coverage, offering position flexibility as an edge rusher or outside linebacker.

 

Stewart’s commitment to South Carolina came after considering offers from numerous major programs, including Ohio State, Georgia, Miami, and Maryland. His official visit to South Carolina in June 2023 was a turning point, where he connected with the coaching staff and appreciated the family atmosphere. He remarked, “It was the people, I love the people at South Carolina, I love the city and state. I know I’ll be good up there and I didn’t have a doubt in my mind about it.”

 

Head coach Shane Beamer’s reputation as a player’s coach significantly influenced Stewart’s decision. Stewart observed Beamer’s positive interactions with players and coaches, reinforcing his belief that South Carolina was the right fit. He is expected to play the “Jack” position in the Gamecocks’ defense, a role that will utilize his versatility by allowing him to rush from various positions, drop into coverage, and execute stunts to pressure the quarterback.

 

Stewart’s commitment is a testament to South Carolina’s successful recruiting efforts in the Washington metropolitan area. He is the second prospect from this region to join the Gamecocks’ 2024 class, following the signing of five-star athlete Nyckoles Harbor from Archbishop Carroll in Washington, D.C., in the previous cycle. This trend underscores the program’s growing influence and ability to attract top talent from the DMV area.

 

Stewart’s arrival is anticipated to have an immediate impact on the Gamecocks’ defense. He expressed confidence in his ability to contribute early, stating his goal to be a “Day 1 starter.” His combination of size, speed, and football intelligence positions him well to thrive in the Southeastern Conference and elevate South Carolina’s defensive performance in the coming seasons.

 

Overall, Dylan Stewart’s commitment represents a significant milestone for South Carolina football, reflecting the program’s upward trajectory and its capacity to compete for elite talent on the national stage.