Jaylen Stewart is a linebacker for the Illinois Fighting Illini. The Houston native attended Pearland High School, where he was a three-star recruit ranked #69 at his position by recruiting services. As a four-year varsity letterwinner, Stewart recorded 132 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 17 sacks during his high school career. He earned First Team All-District honors in 2024 and Second Team All-District in 2025 in UIL 6A Region III District 22, serving as team captain in both his junior and senior seasons. Stewart also participated in basketball and track. Standing 6'2" and weighing 235 pounds, he is a true freshman majoring in media and cinema studies.