South Carolina EDGE Dylan Stewart’s injury return gets target date circled on calendar

South Carolina football could soon get star EDGE Dylan Stewart back from injury as the junior continues working toward his return from injury.

Stewart has not yet returned to full practice as he continues working back from the injuries that limited him last season. The Gamecocks have already ruled him out for Saturday’s season opener against Kent State.

In an article published Thursday, On3 Sports’ Pete Nakos reported sources have circled the Mississippi State matchup for Stewart’s possible return, just in time for South Carolina’s Week 3 SEC opener.

“South Carolina EDGE Dylan Stewart has not yet begun practicing, but sources have circled the Mississippi State game as the date to watch for a possible return.”

That timeline does not guarantee Stewart will play vs. the Bulldogs. He still needs clearance for contact before South Carolina can consider him ready for game action.

Stewart battled a back injury during the 2025 season and also dealt with a hip issue. He played 11 games, recording 33 tackles and 4.5 sacks, before missing spring practice as part of his recovery.

The 6-foot-5, 250-pound pass rusher has totaled 56 tackles, 22.5 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, and six forced fumbles during his South Carolina career.

Stewart enters his junior season as one of South Carolina’s most established defensive players after quickly becoming a key contributor during his first two years. His return would restore a proven presence to the Gamecocks’ pass rush as they move from their opening non-conference schedule into SEC play.

The Gamecocks host Towson after facing Kent State before opening conference play against Mississippi State at Williams-Brice Stadium. That schedule gives Stewart the Towson week, plus practice time, to continue progressing ahead of the SEC opener.

For now, Stewart remains out of full practice and without medical clearance to play, making the Mississippi State matchup a target to watch rather than a confirmed return date.

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