Top Returning Players to the SEC in 2025 Include Dylan Stewart, Ryan Williams

The Southeastern Conference (SEC) has long been regarded as the most competitive and prestigious college football conference in the nation. With powerhouse programs such as Alabama, Georgia, LSU, and Auburn, it is a breeding ground for some of the most talented athletes in the sport. As the 2025 season approaches, several star players are returning to the conference, and among them are two elite talents, Dylan Stewart and Ryan Williams. These players are poised to make a significant impact on the SEC and will be central to their respective teams’ success in the upcoming season.

Let’s take a closer look at these top returning players to the SEC in 2025, exploring their previous performances, expectations for the 2025 season, and why they are considered two of the best in the conference.

Dylan Stewart: The Defensive Standout

Position: Defensive Line
School: South Carolina
Class: Junior
Height/Weight: 6’5″, 250 lbs

Dylan Stewart has rapidly emerged as one of the most dominant defensive players in the SEC and is a player that will be closely watched in 2025. After an impressive freshman season in 2023, Stewart solidified himself as a force on the defensive line for South Carolina. His size, athleticism, and explosiveness off the edge have made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks and offensive linemen.

Previous Performance:
During the 2024 season, Stewart was a key contributor to the South Carolina defense, registering 8 sacks and 15 tackles for loss. His ability to disrupt the backfield and create chaos for opposing offenses helped the Gamecocks remain competitive in an incredibly tough SEC. Stewart’s blend of speed, strength, and technique makes him a matchup nightmare for any offensive tackle, and his versatility allows him to line up at various positions on the defensive line.

Why 2025 Will Be a Breakout Year:
Heading into 2025, Stewart has the potential to take his game to another level. With another year of experience under his belt, he should be even more refined in his pass-rush techniques, making him a more complete player. Stewart is expected to become one of the top defensive linemen in the entire country and a future first-round pick in the NFL Draft. His ability to pressure the quarterback consistently and stop the run will be critical for South Carolina, who is looking to take a step forward in the SEC East.

The Gamecocks’ defense will be built around players like Stewart, who can change the course of a game with one play. If Stewart continues to develop and stays healthy, there’s no doubt he will be one of the most impactful players in the SEC and a potential candidate for national honors such as the Bronko Nagurski Trophy (best defensive player in the nation).

Ryan Williams: The Offensive Phenomenon

Position: Wide Receiver
School: Alabama
Class: Sophomore
Height/Weight: 6’1″, 185 lbs

Ryan Williams is one of the most exciting offensive prospects in college football, and his return to Alabama for the 2025 season has fans in Tuscaloosa and around the SEC buzzing with excitement. After a stellar freshman season in 2024, Williams has already made a name for himself as one of the most dangerous wide receivers in the country. His combination of speed, route-running, and hands make him a dynamic weapon on the field and a potential game-changer for the Alabama offense.

Previous Performance:
Williams wasted no time making an impact as a true freshman. In 2024, he recorded 1,200 yards receiving and 12 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to stretch the field and make plays in crucial moments. Williams’ speed is one of his biggest assets; he has the ability to take the top off the defense with his deep-ball skills, but he’s also a sharp route runner who can create separation on short and intermediate routes. His ability to make defenders miss in the open field, coupled with his elusiveness and agility, makes him a versatile weapon in Alabama’s offense.

Why 2025 Will Be His Year:
Heading into 2025, Ryan Williams has the potential to be the SEC’s best wide receiver and one of the top players in college football. With a year of experience under his belt, he should be even more polished as a route runner and a more consistent threat on the field. Williams will also benefit from playing in an offense under Nick Saban, which will continue to develop him and put him in position to succeed.

As one of the key pieces in Alabama’s high-powered offense, Williams will be the focal point of defenses across the SEC. His speed, agility, and playmaking ability will be critical for Alabama’s success, especially as they continue to compete for national championships in the SEC. With quarterback play potentially improving in 2025, Williams could see an even greater increase in production, potentially reaching 1,500 receiving yards or more.

Williams’ return to Alabama will likely make him a household name in college football, and he is poised to be one of the most dangerous weapons in the SEC, capable of making big plays at any moment.

Other SEC Stars to Watch in 2025

While Stewart and Williams are two of the most high-profile players returning to the SEC in 2025, the conference is filled with talent across the board. Here are a few more players to keep an eye on as we approach the new season:

1. Brock Bowers (Georgia, Tight End)
Bowers is one of the most dynamic tight ends in the country and is poised to once again lead Georgia’s offense in 2025. He’s a matchup nightmare for defenses with his size, speed, and ability to make plays after the catch. Bowers has been a consistent contributor to Georgia’s championship-contending offense, and his experience and leadership will be critical for the Bulldogs in the SEC.

2. Will Anderson Jr. (Alabama, Edge Rusher)
One of the top pass rushers in college football, Anderson is looking to cement his legacy in 2025 as one of the best defensive players in SEC history. His ability to rush the quarterback and disrupt plays behind the line of scrimmage will be crucial for Alabama’s defense as they attempt to make another run at the SEC title.

3. Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss, Quarterback)
Dart returns as one of the most talented quarterbacks in the SEC after an impressive 2024 season. He has the tools to be one of the top signal-callers in the conference, and with a strong supporting cast, Dart could lead Ole Miss to new heights in 2025. His arm strength, mobility, and decision-making make him a dangerous dual-threat quarterback.

4. KJ Jefferson (Arkansas, Quarterback)
Jefferson is one of the more experienced quarterbacks in the SEC and has the ability to take over games with his legs and arm. As Arkansas looks to take a step forward in the SEC, Jefferson’s leadership and skill set will be a key part of their success in 2025.