South Carolina fans got an early Christmas gift this year - and it came in the form of two major returns for the 2026 season. Quarterback LaNorris Sellers and edge rusher Dylan Stewart, arguably the two most important players on the Gamecocks’ roster, both announced they’re coming back to Columbia. That’s a huge win for Shane Beamer’s program, especially after a tough 4-8 campaign in 2025.
But just as the fanbase was riding high, a report surfaced claiming the combined NIL deals for Sellers and Stewart were worth somewhere around $5 million. That number went viral fast - and Beamer wasted no time shutting it down.
“Sounds to me like you need some much better sources,” Beamer posted on X. “This isn’t even remotely close to being true. #AnythingForClicks #MerryChristmas.”
Beamer’s response was swift and direct, and it speaks to the larger conversation happening around NIL in college football. As the market continues to evolve, so does the speculation. But in this case, Beamer made it clear: the rumors didn’t match reality.
Let’s focus on what is true - and what really matters for South Carolina heading into 2026.
LaNorris Sellers has become one of the most electric dual-threat quarterbacks in the country. Over the past two seasons, he’s piled up nearly 6,000 total yards and 43 touchdowns. He’s the kind of player who forces defensive coordinators to lose sleep - a true game-changer with both his arm and his legs.
His decision to return comes as the Gamecocks hit the reset button on offense. Beamer brought in Kendal Briles to take over play-calling duties after parting ways with Mike Shula.
Briles is known for his up-tempo, aggressive offensive style - a system that could fit Sellers like a glove. If this pairing clicks, South Carolina’s offense could look a whole lot more dangerous in 2026.
Then there’s Dylan Stewart - the anchor of the defense and one of the most disruptive edge rushers in the SEC. In just 24 career games, the former Five-Star Plus+ recruit has racked up 11 sacks, 22.5 tackles for loss, and six forced fumbles.
He’s not just productive - he’s a tone-setter. Stewart’s return gives South Carolina a proven playmaker on defense and a leader in the locker room.
Beamer emphasized that both players came back for reasons that go beyond NIL numbers. According to him, Sellers and Stewart believe in the direction of the program.
They see unfinished business in Columbia. And after a frustrating 2025 season, that belief - and their leadership - could be exactly what this team needs.
So while the $5 million rumor made headlines, the real story is about commitment, culture, and a team trying to turn the page. With two of their top stars locked in for another run, South Carolina’s outlook for 2026 just got a whole lot brighter.
Forget the noise. The Gamecocks have their quarterback.
They have their pass rusher. And now, they have momentum.