Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart remains a strong contender in the latest mock drafts, showcasing his growing potential and NFL prospects.

As the 2025 NFL Draft draws closer, one name that continues to turn heads in the world of college football and draft predictions is Shemar Stewart, the standout defensive lineman from Texas A&M. After an impactful freshman season, Stewart has become a fixture in the mock drafts, with many analysts projecting him to be a high pick due to his immense talent, raw athleticism, and the upside he shows as he continues to develop as a player.

Stewart’s rise as one of the top defensive line prospects in college football is no accident. The defensive end from Florida has been a constant force for the Texas A&M Aggies since stepping onto the field, and his ability to dominate in both run defense and pass rush makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking to shore up their defensive lines.

In the latest round of mock drafts, Stewart has consistently remained a top prospect, and as he heads into his sophomore year, there is an increasing buzz around what he can bring to the NFL. So, what makes Shemar Stewart stand out among other defensive prospects? Let’s dive into why the former five-star recruit is not only a potential first-round pick but also a player with the skill set to be a difference-maker at the next level.

1. A Five-Star Talent

Shemar Stewart’s journey to college football greatness began well before his time at Texas A&M. Coming out of high school, he was a consensus five-star recruit, regarded as one of the top defensive line prospects in the country. Hailing from St. Petersburg, Florida, Stewart’s reputation was built on his combination of size, athleticism, and playmaking ability. At 6’5” and 290 pounds, Stewart had the kind of frame that was highly coveted by college programs and NFL scouts alike.

During his high school career at St. Thomas Aquinas, Stewart was a disruptive force, dominating both the interior and the edge of the defensive line. He was known for his quick first step, powerful hands, and relentless motor. These traits helped him earn a spot among the top recruits in the country, and his decision to commit to Texas A&M was seen as a huge win for the Aggies’ recruiting class.

When Stewart enrolled at Texas A&M, his raw athleticism and natural ability quickly made him one of the most promising players on the team. Despite being just a freshman, Stewart’s performance on the field showed why he was so highly regarded as a prospect. His combination of strength, speed, and technique gave coaches and scouts confidence that he had the potential to make a significant impact in the SEC.

2. His Freshman Impact at Texas A&M

Shemar Stewart’s first season at Texas A&M was an eye-opening one. Despite the Aggies facing some challenges throughout the season, Stewart was one of the bright spots on the defensive side of the ball. In his freshman year, he was a force to be reckoned with, showcasing his ability to be both a stout run defender and a disruptive pass rusher.

Stewart’s physical presence on the defensive line was felt from the very first game. He quickly became one of the primary contributors for the Aggies, earning starting duties early on and making an immediate impact in key matchups. His ability to clog up running lanes and take on multiple blockers allowed other players to shine, and his ability to collapse the pocket on passing downs kept opposing quarterbacks under constant pressure.

What stood out most about Stewart in his freshman year was his maturity and understanding of the game. Despite his age, he played with a sense of poise and knowledge that belied his inexperience. He showed an ability to read plays and adjust on the fly, a trait that is crucial for a player looking to make the jump to the NFL.

Stewart finished his first season at Texas A&M with an impressive stat line, but it was his intangibles that left scouts and analysts most excited. His ability to impact the game in so many different ways made him one of the most complete defensive line prospects in recent memory. As a result, many believe that he is on track to become one of the most sought-after players in the 2025 NFL Draft.

3. Why Shemar Stewart is a Top Draft Prospect

There are several factors contributing to Shemar Stewart’s rise in mock drafts and his status as a top NFL prospect. Let’s break down the key elements of his game that have made him such an attractive player for NFL teams:

Size and Physical Attributes: At 6’5” and 290 pounds, Stewart has the ideal build for a modern NFL defensive lineman. His size allows him to play both as a defensive end and as a defensive tackle in certain schemes. He has the length to disengage from blockers and get his hands up to disrupt passing lanes, as well as the strength to anchor against the run.

Athleticism and Agility: What sets Stewart apart from many of his peers is his incredible athleticism for a player of his size. He has an explosive first step that allows him to beat offensive linemen off the ball, and his ability to close the distance quickly on ball carriers is impressive. Stewart’s agility and quickness make him difficult to block, and his lateral movement allows him to pursue plays across the field.

Pass-Rushing Ability: One of the most enticing aspects of Stewart’s game is his pass-rushing ability. While he still has room to grow in this area, his raw ability to generate pressure on the quarterback is evident. His quickness off the line of scrimmage, combined with his strength and hand technique, allows him to create havoc in the pocket. As he continues to refine his pass-rushing moves, Stewart could develop into one of the most dangerous defensive linemen in college football.

Run Defense: While pass rushing gets most of the attention, Stewart is also known for his ability to stop the run. His strength at the point of attack, combined with his ability to shed blockers, makes him a reliable defender in the running game. He can anchor against double teams and clog up running lanes, which makes him an invaluable asset in defending the run. His ability to dominate the line of scrimmage is something that NFL teams covet.

Football IQ and Motor: Stewart’s football IQ is another aspect that sets him apart. He understands offensive linemen’s tendencies and knows how to exploit their weaknesses. His relentless motor ensures that he never takes plays off and is always in pursuit of the ball. Whether it’s against the run or the pass, Stewart’s non-stop effort and mental sharpness make him a constant threat on the field.

4. What the NFL Teams See in Stewart

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, NFL teams will be paying close attention to players like Shemar Stewart. Defensive line play has become increasingly important in today’s NFL, with many teams prioritizing pass rushers who can disrupt the quarterback and stop the run. Stewart’s blend of size, athleticism, and football IQ makes him an ideal fit for numerous defensive schemes.

Teams that run a 4-3 defense may see Stewart as an ideal defensive end, while teams that run a 3-4 defense could view him as a versatile defensive lineman who can line up both on the edge and on the interior. Stewart’s ability to fit into multiple systems gives him significant value in the eyes of NFL teams.

With the continued emphasis on quarterback development and the growing trend of mobile quarterbacks in the NFL, having a player like Stewart who can consistently pressure the quarterback will be highly sought after. His combination of size, speed, and power allows him to not only rush the passer but also play in space, which will be crucial when defending against the mobile quarterbacks of the NFL.

5. The Road Ahead for Shemar Stewart

As Shemar Stewart prepares for his sophomore season at Texas A&M, his trajectory is clear: He is one of the most promising defensive line prospects in the country, and his future in the NFL looks brighter by the day. If he can continue to develop his pass-rushing skills, improve his technique, and maintain his relentless motor, he could end up being one of the top picks in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Texas A&M fans and NFL scouts alike are watching with great anticipation as Stewart looks to take the next step in his development. A strong performance during the 2025 college football season will only further solidify his status as one of the most exciting prospects available.