Pair of South Carolina defenders earn preseason AP All-American nods

On Monday, the Associated Press released its preseason All-American team for the 2025 season. A pair of Gamecocks earned the distinction.

Sophomore EDGE Dylan Stewart earned first-team honors. The AP selection is one of many for the talented pass rusher this offseason. Viewed by many as a top 10 player in the sport, Stewart will be the most feared defensive lineman in Columbia since Jadeveon Clowney.

Earning a second-team selection was defensive back Jalon Kilgore. Kilgore, a junior, has had a hyped offseason, as well. Having spent most of his career at nickel, he is expected to stick at the spot to start the 2025 season. However, he has experience playing safety, and some in the NFL Draft world think he could play outside corner, too.

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Stewart had a strong debut season in 2024. Playing opposite Nagurski Trophy winner Kyle Kennard, he logged 6.5 sacks and was among the national leaders in total quarterback hurries. Stewart had a knack for knocking loose the football and also for making big plays in a game’s biggest moments. Last fall, he earned multiple Freshman of the Year honors and received some All-SEC and All-American considerations. He has made nearly every preseason All-American team this summer.

Kilgore was a Freshman All-American back in 2023 as a hybrid nickel and safety. Playing nearly all of 2024 in the slot, he was an All-SEC contributor. Kilgore is a sure tackler and has excellent ball skills when challenged. He tied for the SEC lead in interceptions as a sophomore, including the game-sealing pick in South Carolina’s season opener.

Though not included by the AP, quarterback LaNorris Sellers has picked up some preseason All-American buzz, as well.

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