Texas A&M Aggies football star Shemar Stewart may get drafted again in 2026 by a team other than the Bengals

Texas A&M defensive lineman Shemar Stewart has established himself as one of college football’s most dominant and promising young talents. Entering the 2026 NFL Draft cycle, Stewart’s name is already on the lips of scouts, analysts, and fans nationwide. While early projections link him strongly with the Cincinnati Bengals due to their persistent interest and proximity, speculation is growing that Stewart’s eventual NFL destination might be a surprise — a team other than the Bengals.

In this article, we will explore Shemar Stewart’s rise as a college football star, his standout attributes, the factors shaping his 2026 draft stock, and why multiple NFL teams could be in the running to select him, possibly shaking up expectations and draft boards across the league.

Shemar Stewart: A College Football Force

Shemar Stewart’s path from Texas high school standout to Texas A&M star has been marked by consistent growth, relentless effort, and game-changing plays. Known for his explosive athleticism, strength, and technique, Stewart is a cornerstone of the Aggies’ defense.

Early Career and Development

Before donning the maroon and white of Texas A&M, Stewart earned a reputation as a disruptive defensive lineman at the high school level. His combination of size, speed, and agility caught the attention of recruiters early on, making him one of the nation’s top defensive prospects.

At Texas A&M, Stewart has translated his physical gifts into production on the field. His ability to pressure the quarterback, stop the run, and create chaos in the backfield has made him one of the most feared defensive linemen in college football.

Stewart’s 2026 NFL Draft Stock: Why the Bengals?

The Cincinnati Bengals have been linked to Shemar Stewart for several reasons. The team has shown consistent interest in his skill set, and the Bengals’ defensive scheme could be an excellent fit for a player of Stewart’s caliber.

Scheme Fit and Team Needs

The Bengals’ defense, particularly their front seven, has emphasized versatility, strength, and the ability to generate pressure from various positions. Stewart’s blend of speed and power fits well with this approach, giving Cincinnati a dynamic presence on the defensive line.

Additionally, the Bengals’ draft position in 2026 could align with Stewart’s projected selection range, making them a logical landing spot if they prioritize bolstering their defensive front.

Past Interactions and Scouting

Reports suggest that Cincinnati’s scouting staff has extensively studied Stewart’s tape and hosted him for interviews and visits. Such attention indicates the Bengals view Stewart as a potential key piece for their defense moving forward.

Why Other Teams Could Enter the Picture

While the Bengals are strong candidates to draft Stewart, multiple factors suggest that other NFL teams could vie for his talents, potentially drafting him instead.

Depth of Defensive Linemen in the 2026 Draft

The 2026 draft class is expected to be deep with talented defensive linemen. Teams with early picks may target players who fit their schemes better or offer unique skill sets, creating competition for prospects like Stewart.

Varied Defensive Schemes Around the League

Different NFL teams run varying defensive systems, from 3-4 fronts to 4-3 schemes, and some even incorporate hybrid packages. Stewart’s versatility allows him to fit multiple systems, making him an attractive option for a wide array of teams.

For instance, teams that prioritize edge rushing or require stout run defenders might view Stewart as a perfect fit, regardless of whether the Bengals select him.

Trade and Draft Dynamics

The NFL Draft is unpredictable, with trades and unexpected moves frequently altering draft boards. Even if the Bengals hold a pick in Stewart’s projected range, they could trade that pick or be outmaneuvered by teams eager to add him.

This uncertainty means Stewart’s final destination could be any team willing to invest a high pick in a disruptive defensive lineman.

Shemar Stewart’s Attributes That NFL Teams Covet

To understand why Stewart is so highly regarded and why multiple teams might pursue him, it’s essential to look closely at his attributes.

Explosiveness and Quickness

Stewart is known for his first-step explosiveness, allowing him to beat offensive linemen off the snap. His quickness helps him pursue quarterbacks and running backs effectively, giving him an edge in pass rush situations.

Power and Strength

Standing around 6 feet 4 inches and weighing roughly 280 pounds, Stewart combines size with remarkable strength. He can bull-rush blockers, hold his ground against double teams, and disrupt plays in the trenches.

Technique and Football IQ

Stewart’s technique has improved steadily throughout his college career. Coaches praise his hand usage, footwork, and ability to diagnose plays quickly. His football intelligence allows him to anticipate snap counts and offensive tendencies.

Versatility

Shemar Stewart can line up as a defensive end, defensive tackle, or even a stand-up edge rusher. This versatility increases his value, as teams can deploy him in various roles depending on their defensive schemes.

Impact at Texas A&M and College Highlights

Stewart’s production at Texas A&M speaks volumes about his potential at the next level.

• Sacks and Tackles for Loss: He consistently ranks among the team leaders in sacks and tackles for loss, demonstrating his ability to make game-changing plays.
• Key Moments: Throughout his college career, Stewart has delivered pivotal plays against top-ranked opponents, showing poise under pressure.
• Leadership: Beyond statistics, Stewart is viewed as a leader in the locker room, setting an example for teammates with his work ethic and commitment.

What the Future Holds for Shemar Stewart

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Stewart’s stock continues to rise, fueled by his on-field performance and growing reputation.

NFL Draft Preparation

Stewart is reportedly preparing diligently for the NFL Combine and Pro Days, focusing on strength and conditioning, drills, and interviews to make a strong impression on scouts.

Potential Landing Spots Beyond Cincinnati

While the Bengals remain a strong candidate, teams such as the New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, and Detroit Lions could also be in the mix depending on draft order and their defensive needs.

Long-Term NFL Outlook

If Stewart continues on his current trajectory, he projects as a first-round pick with the potential to become a cornerstone of an NFL defense. His combination of skills and character suggests a successful transition to the professional level.

Shemar Stewart’s emergence as one of the premier defensive linemen in college football sets the stage for a highly anticipated 2026 NFL Draft. While the Cincinnati Bengals are often mentioned as a likely destination, the evolving dynamics of the draft, coupled with Stewart’s versatile skill set, mean other teams could very well end up selecting this defensive phenom.

For Texas A&M, Stewart’s success is a testament to their program’s ability to develop elite talent. For Stewart himself, the journey is just beginning — and wherever he lands, his impact is expected to be significant.

As the 2026 draft approaches, all eyes will be on Shemar Stewart, a player whose potential could redefine defensive dominance for whichever NFL team secures his talents.