The number one player of South Carolina’s 2024 recruiting class has officially signed. Five-star Dylan Stewart is the number two edge player nationally, according to the 247Sports Composite ranking, and now he is a Gamecock. Stewart has a long, athletic frame at 6’5” and 235 pounds. His quick-twitch natural ability allows him to make plays in the backfield regularly. Stewart played high school ball at Friendship Collegiate Academy in Washington, D.C. Although this did not provide him with the most robust competition, his raw talent is undeniable. Stewart projects to be a contributor right away. Of course, he will grow into his role and blossom as he gains experience and training at the college level. But Carolina’s coaching staff is relying on him to fill a gap on the edge early in his career.
Edge was in a high position of need heading into the 2023 season after Carolina lost multiple starters in the transfer portal. Unfortunately for the Gamecocks, Shane Beamer and staff did not hit on any players who could immediately at this position last cycle. With the 2023 freshmen being a year stronger and smarter, they can be paired with Stewart to make a quick impact. In high school, Stewart played primarily in a stand-up role and lived in the backfield. He can go around the edge or shoot a gap inside. His long, lean frame allows him to squeeze through tight windows. However, he is also big and powerful enough to blow through smaller blockers. Due to his athleticism, Stewart could also be flexed to outside linebacker. Overall, his greatest quality is his quickness. He is a five-star player because of how he can explode and blow past the opposition.
Stewart is the sixth highest-rated recruit in the history of the football program at South Carolina and will draw comparisons to guys like Jordan Burch and Jadeveon Clowney. His addition continues to forge a fruitful pipeline for the Gamecocks in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) area. Carolina beat Ohio State for the number 16 overall player in the 2024 class. It will not take long to see the impact of the five-star Stewart for the Gamecocks. He had 16 sacks as a junior in 2022.
