Texas A&M defensive end Shemar Stewart delivered a standout performance at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, significantly enhancing his draft prospects. Stewart’s display of exceptional athleticism and physical prowess has drawn comparisons to elite NFL defenders and positioned him as a potential top-10 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Physical Measurements and Athletic Testing
Measuring 6-foot-5 and weighing 267 pounds, Stewart showcased a rare combination of size and explosiveness. He recorded a 40-inch vertical jump, placing him second among defensive linemen at the combine, and an impressive 10-foot-11-inch broad jump, leading all participants in his position group. These marks highlight his lower-body strength and explosive capabilities, traits highly coveted in NFL edge rushers.
In the 40-yard dash, Stewart clocked a remarkable 4.59 seconds, surpassing the 4.64-second time posted by former Texas A&M standout and current NFL star Myles Garrett during his combine appearance in 2017. This feat underscores Stewart’s exceptional speed relative to his size, further elevating his draft stock.
Relative Athletic Score and Historical Context
Stewart’s combine performance earned him a Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 9.99 out of a possible 10, ranking third among 1,802 defensive ends evaluated since 1987. The RAS metric assesses a player’s athleticism relative to their position, and Stewart’s near-perfect score places him among the most athletically gifted defensive ends in decades.
College Performance and Draft Implications
Despite modest statistical production during his tenure at Texas A&M—accumulating 65 total tackles and 4.5 sacks over three seasons—Stewart’s physical attributes and combine results have shifted the focus toward his potential at the professional level. His performance in Indianapolis has alleviated concerns regarding his college output, with NFL scouts and analysts now projecting him as a likely first-round selection, potentially within the top 10 picks.
Comparisons and Team Interest
The parallels between Stewart and Myles Garrett extend beyond their alma mater. Both players possess a unique blend of size, speed, and explosiveness that make them formidable pass rushers. Stewart’s combine metrics have drawn direct comparisons to Garrett’s pre-draft performances, suggesting a similar impact potential at the next level.
Teams in need of defensive line reinforcement are taking notice. The Cincinnati Bengals, for instance, have met with Stewart, indicating a strong interest in bolstering their pass rush capabilities. Such engagements reflect the growing consensus that Stewart’s athleticism and upside make him a valuable asset in the forthcoming draft.
Conclusion
Shemar Stewart’s exceptional performance at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine has solidified his status as one of the premier defensive prospects in this year’s draft class. By showcasing elite athleticism and drawing favorable comparisons to established NFL talents, Stewart has positioned himself as a potential game-changer for teams seeking to enhance their defensive front. As the NFL Draft approaches, his name is one to watch closely, with expectations of an early selection and a promising professional career ahead.