South Carolina is approaching a crucial 2026 football season, and the health of two key players could play a major role in determining the team’s success. After finishing with a disappointing 4-8 record in 2025, the Gamecocks are looking to rebound under head coach Shane Beamer. Much of that effort will depend on the availability and performance of standout defensive end Dylan Stewart and veteran offensive tackle Jacarrius Peak.
Both players dealt with injuries that limited them during the offseason. Stewart participated only partially in spring practices as he continued recovering from a back injury that affected him throughout much of the 2025 campaign. Peak, meanwhile, suffered a knee injury during a pickup basketball game, creating concerns about his readiness for the upcoming season.
Beamer recently provided an update on both players and expressed optimism about their recoveries. According to the South Carolina coach, Stewart has made significant progress since the spring. He has been active in the team’s strength and conditioning program and has shown strong commitment to his rehabilitation process. Beamer noted that Stewart arrives early for workouts and continues to put in extra effort before scheduled team activities begin.
While Stewart remains somewhat limited, the coach emphasized that he is capable of doing much more than he was able to do just a few months ago. Beamer also indicated that the talented pass rusher is maintaining a positive attitude and remains on schedule to be fully prepared for the 2026 season.
When discussing Peak, Beamer suggested that the offensive lineman is progressing along a similar timeline. Both players have been able to participate in weightlifting sessions and selected workouts with teammates, which is viewed as an encouraging sign as summer preparations continue.
Stewart has already established himself as one of the most impactful defensive players on South Carolina’s roster. Through his first two seasons with the Gamecocks, he has accumulated 56 total tackles, 11 sacks, six forced fumbles, and three pass breakups. His combination of athleticism, power, and production has attracted attention from NFL evaluators, with some early projections viewing him as a potential top-10 selection in the 2027 NFL Draft.
The importance of Stewart’s return cannot be overstated. South Carolina’s defense struggled at times during the previous season, and having a healthy edge rusher capable of disrupting opposing offenses could significantly improve the unit’s performance. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and create turnovers gives the Gamecocks a difference-maker on the defensive side of the ball.
Peak is expected to have an equally important role, particularly in protecting quarterback LaNorris Sellers. One of the most sought-after transfer portal additions during the offseason, Peak arrived in Columbia after spending three seasons at NC State. During his time with the Wolfpack, he appeared in 38 games and earned 13 starts, including a strong campaign last season that resulted in first-team All-ACC recognition.
Peak developed a reputation as one of the conference’s top pass blockers and is expected to provide immediate stability to South Carolina’s offensive line. His arrival addresses a major concern from the 2025 season, when Sellers was sacked 43 times. Improving pass protection remains a top priority for the Gamecocks, and Peak’s experience and skill set could help reduce the pressure on the quarterback.
A stronger offensive line would also benefit the running game. With more time in the pocket and better blocking up front, Sellers could have additional opportunities to utilize his mobility and create plays both through the air and on the ground. The coaching staff hopes that improved protection will lead to greater offensive efficiency and consistency throughout the season.
As preseason preparations continue, there is still time before fall camp begins, and the full extent of both players’ recoveries will become clearer in the coming weeks. However, Beamer’s latest comments provide reasons for optimism among South Carolina supporters.
The coach’s updates suggest that neither Stewart nor Peak has experienced major setbacks during rehabilitation. Instead, both appear to be steadily progressing toward a full return. Their participation in workouts and strength training activities indicates that they are moving in the right direction physically.
For a South Carolina team aiming to bounce back from a difficult season, having both stars available could make a significant difference. Stewart brings game-changing talent to the defense, while Peak strengthens an offensive line that desperately needed reinforcements. Together, they represent two of the most important pieces in the Gamecocks’ plans for improvement in 2026.
While questions remain until fall camp and the start of the season, the latest reports from the coaching staff are encouraging. If both players continue recovering as expected, South Carolina could enter the upcoming campaign with two of its most valuable contributors ready to play major roles in the team’s effort to return to bowl contention and reestablish momentum under Beamer’s leadership.
