Texas A&M defensive end Shemar Stewart’s selection by the Cincinnati Bengals at No. 17 in the 2025 NFL Draft has sparked surprise and intrigue across the league. Despite recording only 4.5 sacks over three seasons with the Aggies, Stewart’s exceptional athleticism at the NFL Scouting Combine elevated his draft stock significantly.
The 6-foot-5, 267-pound edge rusher posted a 4.59-second 40-yard dash, a 40-inch vertical jump, and a 10-foot-11-inch broad jump, earning a perfect 10.00 Relative Athletic Score (RAS), the highest among defensive ends from 1987 to 2025.
While some analysts expressed skepticism due to his college production, others lauded the pick. SB Nation awarded the Bengals an “A” grade, praising Stewart’s elite athleticism and disruptive potential.
The Bengals aim to bolster their pass rush alongside Trey Hendrickson and Myles Murphy. Stewart’s selection reflects the team’s confidence in his development potential under NFL coaching.
