Shemar Stewart won’t participate in Texas A&M’s upcoming bowl recreation. The junior defensive lineman announced on Monday that he’s declaring for April’s NFL Draft.
A former five-star recruit, Stewart arrived with excessive expectations based mostly on his measurement and athleticism. He has been a key determine alongside the D-line all through his three seasons with the Aggies, though his manufacturing doesn’t stand out in comparison with different prospects seen as potential edge rushers on the NFL degree. Stewart simply recorded 1.5 sacks yearly, however he set a brand new profession excessive in complete stops (31) and tackles for loss (six) in 2024.
Given his 6-6, 290-pound body, Stewart actually has the potential play on the inside upon turning professional. His skill to see time as a defensive finish may add to his versatility, one thing which will probably be key in figuring out his draft inventory. Stewart’s upside will probably be weighed towards his restricted manufacturing as groups think about him as a Day 1 possibility.
Each ESPN Matt Miller and The Ringer’s Danny Kelly have Stewart touchdown in the course of the first-round of their newest mock drafts. Any crew making that notable of an funding would financial institution on his athletic upside, and Stewart’s efficiency on the mix in March will probably be important in establishing his vary through the draft. A powerful exhibiting may improve the variety of suitors eager about including him through the spring.
A variety of high-profile edge rushers determine to be obtainable on Day 1 of this 12 months’s draft, and the extent to which Stewart is seen as a hybrid defender (versus being strictly a five-technique) will probably be fascinating to comply with over the approaching months. His inventory may fluctuate significantly all through the predraft course of.
