Shemar Stewart is a physically gifted edge rusher whose combination of size, speed, and explosiveness makes him one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Despite modest statistical production at Texas A&M—accumulating 4.5 sacks over three seasons , Stewart's athletic prowess was on full display during the NFL Combine, where he posted a perfect Relative Athletic Score of 10.0

Stewart's strengths lie in his rare physical attributes, including a 6'5", 267-pound frame, 34⅛-inch arms, and elite explosiveness. His 4.59-second 40-yard dash, 40-inch vertical jump, and 10-foot-11 broad jump underscore his athletic potential. He has demonstrated the ability to set the edge effectively in run defense and possesses the agility to disrupt plays in the backfield. However, his college production did not always match his physical tools, leading to questions about his consistency and technique. Analysts note that Stewart needs to refine his pass-rushing moves and develop a more effective plan of attack to maximize his impact at the professional level .

Despite these concerns, Stewart's upside is considerable. His performance at the Senior Bowl further solidified his status as a first-round talent, showcasing his ability to compete against top-tier competition . NFL teams are intrigued by his potential to develop into a dominant edge rusher with proper coaching and development

In the 2025 NFL Draft, Stewart was selected 17th overall by the Cincinnati Bengals, who were drawn to his athletic ceiling and potential to bolster their pass rush. The Bengals view Stewart as a high-upside addition to their defensive front, capable of contributing both as a pass rusher and run defender .