South Carolina EDGE Dylan Stewart Taken Extremely High in Unique NFL Mock Draft
South Carolina’s EDGE rusher, Dylan Stewart, has been generating serious buzz as one of the top prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Recently, in a unique NFL mock draft that has caught the attention of both college football fans and draft analysts alike, Stewart was selected extremely high—way higher than many anticipated. This draft projection not only speaks to Stewart’s immense talent but also signals a shift in how the football world is evaluating the future of South Carolina football under head coach Shane Beamer.
Dylan Stewart: A Phenomenal Talent
Dylan Stewart’s rise to prominence has been one of the most exciting developments for South Carolina’s defense in recent years. As an EDGE rusher, Stewart brings a unique combination of size, strength, and speed that makes him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. Standing at 6’5” and weighing around 250 pounds, Stewart has the prototypical frame for an NFL pass rusher, but it’s his explosive first step, relentless motor, and ability to shed blockers that truly set him apart.
During his time at South Carolina, Stewart has developed into one of the most disruptive forces in college football, consistently wreaking havoc in the backfield. His combination of physical tools and mental toughness has allowed him to flourish in Shane Beamer’s defense, and he’s shown an uncanny ability to make game-changing plays. Whether it’s closing in on the quarterback or disrupting running plays, Stewart is a force to be reckoned with.
His performances on the field have made him a staple on scouts’ radars. As he heads into his final season with the Gamecocks, Stewart has positioned himself as one of the top EDGE prospects for the upcoming draft.
The Mock Draft That Raised Eyebrows
In a unique NFL mock draft that has been making waves, Dylan Stewart was projected to go much higher than many expected—landing in the top five picks. While it’s not unusual for top-tier pass rushers to be selected early, Stewart’s placement in this mock draft signals a shift in how evaluators view his potential.
Typically, EDGE rushers are taken in the top half of the first round, but the mock draft had Stewart going far earlier than most conventional projections would place him. This not only highlights Stewart’s standout ability but also underscores how much buzz is surrounding him as the draft approaches.
The rise in Stewart’s stock in this mock draft comes as no surprise to those who have closely followed his development over the past few seasons. His ability to dominate in SEC competition, along with his eye-popping physical traits, has elevated him to the forefront of many draft analysts’ minds. It seems like teams are starting to recognize that his potential to transform a defense may be worth taking a gamble on early in the first round.
What Sets Stewart Apart?
There’s no question that the 2025 NFL Draft will be loaded with talent at the EDGE position, but Stewart stands out for several key reasons:
- Explosive First Step: Stewart’s quickness off the line of scrimmage is unparalleled. His ability to get off the ball faster than offensive linemen allows him to consistently generate pressure on the quarterback. This is especially important in today’s NFL, where pass rushers need to be able to close the distance between them and the quarterback in the blink of an eye.
- Versatility: While Stewart’s primary role has been as a pass rusher, he is more than capable of defending against the run and even dropping into coverage when needed. His versatility makes him a unique weapon that could be deployed in a variety of defensive schemes.
- Motor and Work Ethic: What makes Stewart special isn’t just his physical talent—it’s his relentless work ethic and motor. He is often praised for his high-energy style of play, chasing down plays from across the field and never giving up on a rep. Scouts love players who give consistent effort, and Stewart’s ability to sustain that energy over the course of an entire game makes him even more valuable.
- High Football IQ: Stewart isn’t just a physical specimen; he’s also a smart football player. His ability to read offenses and anticipate plays has allowed him to be more effective as a pass rusher and as an all-around defender. This football IQ, combined with his athleticism, gives him a massive edge over other pass rushers in the draft.
- Development Under Shane Beamer: Under head coach Shane Beamer’s leadership, Stewart has evolved into one of the SEC’s most feared pass rushers. Beamer’s defensive coaching staff has maximized Stewart’s potential, and it’s clear that he has improved each year in Columbia. NFL scouts often look at the coaching a player has received, and the development Stewart has had under Beamer is certainly worth noting.
NFL Teams and Stewart’s Fit
If Stewart does indeed land as high as projected in this mock draft, it’s likely that one of the NFL’s top teams will be looking to add him as a foundational piece for their defense. Given the importance of pass rushers in today’s NFL, teams picking in the top five may be inclined to take a shot on Stewart as someone who can immediately contribute and become a game-changer.
Several teams are known to prioritize adding EDGE rushers early in the draft, and Stewart’s selection at the top of the draft could fit their needs perfectly. Teams with a need for a dynamic pass rusher—whether they’re in a rebuilding phase or aiming to add a difference-maker to a contending defense—could be particularly interested in Stewart’s ability to make an impact from day one.
Teams like the Chicago Bears, the Arizona Cardinals, and the Indianapolis Colts—who have historically prioritized pass rushers—could find themselves making a strong push for Stewart’s services. With Stewart’s high ceiling and ability to contribute early, he’s certainly a candidate for one of these teams that are in need of a defensive overhaul or who want to add a star to their pass rush.
Impact on South Carolina’s Program
Stewart’s potential to be taken extremely high in the NFL Draft is another major feather in the cap of Shane Beamer and the South Carolina football program. As the Gamecocks continue to recruit and develop top-tier talent, Stewart’s draft projection will help elevate the program’s profile as a destination for future NFL talent.
Having a player like Stewart—who could be taken in the top five—serves as a testament to the strength of South Carolina’s player development system. It sends a message that the Gamecocks are producing NFL-ready athletes who can compete with the best in the country, not only in the SEC but on the national stage. For Beamer, Stewart’s rise to draft stardom is validation of the program’s upward trajectory under his leadership.
Additionally, Stewart’s success could attract other top recruits who are looking for a program that develops NFL talent. This kind of visibility is essential for South Carolina as they continue to compete in one of the toughest conferences in the nation.