Could Texas A&M star Shemar Stewart parlay a historic NFL Combine performance into becoming a top five pick in the 2025 NFL Draft?
Could Texas A&M Star Shemar Stewart Parlay a Historic NFL Combine Performance Into Becoming a Top Five Pick in the 2025 NFL Draft?
The road to the NFL Draft is a long, winding, and often unpredictable journey. For players like Shemar Stewart, a standout defensive lineman for the Texas A&M Aggies, the path to a top-five draft pick in the 2025 NFL Draft could be made clearer by a dominant performance at the NFL Scouting Combine. Stewart, who has emerged as one of the most exciting prospects in college football, has the talent to make an immediate impact at the next level. However, his fate may very well hinge on his ability to perform in key aspects of the pre-draft process, with the Combine being one of the most crucial events in determining where a player is selected.
In this article, we will examine Shemar Stewart’s background and his development at Texas A&M, delve into the significance of the NFL Combine in shaping draft stock, and analyze how a historic performance could elevate Stewart into top-five draft conversation. We’ll also discuss the attributes that make Stewart one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft and whether his skills on the field can translate to a standout Combine showing.
Shemar Stewart: A Force on the Field
Before considering whether Shemar Stewart can become a top-five pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, it’s important to understand the player himself and the remarkable talent he brings to the table. Stewart, a 6’5”, 310-pound defensive lineman, has become known for his explosive power, athleticism, and versatility on the defensive line. He played his high school football at Colleyville Heritage High School in Texas, where he quickly became a coveted recruit due to his combination of size and speed. Stewart was ranked as one of the top defensive line prospects in the 2023 recruiting class, and his commitment to Texas A&M was seen as a major coup for the Aggies.
In his first two seasons at Texas A&M, Stewart has exceeded expectations, quickly establishing himself as one of the most disruptive forces in college football. As a freshman in 2023, he earned significant playing time and made an immediate impact. His ability to disrupt the quarterback, rush the passer, and shut down the run made him a key contributor for the Aggies’ defense. By his sophomore year in 2024, Stewart’s reputation had only grown stronger. His impressive sack total, ability to generate tackles for loss, and overall presence on the field garnered national attention. His athleticism for his size is almost unparalleled, making him a nightmare for offensive linemen.
The NFL Scouting Combine: A Crucial Event for Draft Prospects
The NFL Scouting Combine is one of the most important events for players hoping to make a name for themselves in the NFL Draft. Held annually in Indianapolis, the Combine brings together the best college football prospects, allowing NFL teams to evaluate their physical abilities, athleticism, and overall skills in a controlled setting. Players undergo a series of tests, including the 40-yard dash, bench press, vertical jump, broad jump, and three-cone drill—all of which provide a snapshot of their physical capabilities. Additionally, players participate in positional drills that help showcase their on-field skills and demonstrate how they would perform in specific roles at the next level.
While the Combine’s primary function is to test players’ physical attributes, it’s also a critical opportunity for players to make a positive impression on scouts, coaches, and general managers. For many top prospects, a standout Combine performance can solidify their status as a first-round pick—or even elevate them into the top-five conversation. This is especially true for players like Shemar Stewart, who possess a combination of size, speed, and strength that is rare at the defensive line position. If Stewart can perform at an elite level during the Combine, it could serve as a catalyst for him to move up draft boards.
The Importance of a Historic Combine Performance
Given the intense competition for the top spots in the 2025 NFL Draft, a historic Combine performance could be the defining factor in Shemar Stewart’s path to the top five. As an elite defensive lineman, Stewart’s ability to showcase his physical attributes in a highly visible setting is crucial for establishing himself as one of the premier prospects in the 2025 class. Several factors make a strong Combine performance critical for Stewart:
1. Demonstrating Elite Athleticism: While defensive linemen are typically known for their size and strength, elite athletes at this position also possess extraordinary speed, agility, and explosiveness. For Shemar Stewart, excelling in tests such as the 40-yard dash and three-cone drill could showcase his quickness off the line of scrimmage, his ability to change direction, and his closing speed as a pass rusher. A standout performance in these drills would reinforce the notion that Stewart is not just a powerful force, but also a well-rounded athlete with the mobility to succeed at the next level.
2. Putting His Strength on Display: Stewart’s physical strength is one of his defining characteristics. At 310 pounds, he has the mass to dominate offensive linemen, but his strength isn’t just about power—he also has the ability to use that power effectively. During the bench press drill, where players must lift 225 pounds as many times as they can, Stewart can demonstrate his raw strength. A high number of reps would be a clear signal to NFL scouts that Stewart has the physical tools necessary to compete in the trenches at the NFL level. Additionally, a strong showing in the vertical jump and broad jump could showcase his explosiveness and leaping ability, further highlighting his dynamic playmaking potential.
3. Versatility and Positional Drills: Stewart’s versatility is another key factor that could set him apart from other defensive line prospects. In his time at Texas A&M, he has proven that he can play both as a defensive tackle and a defensive end, using his size and athleticism to disrupt plays from different positions on the line. During the positional drills at the Combine, Stewart will have the chance to demonstrate his technique, pad level, hand placement, and footwork in front of NFL scouts. A strong showing in these drills will underscore his ability to transition into a variety of defensive schemes and be an impactful player on either side of the line of scrimmage.
4. Mental Toughness and Preparation: Beyond physical ability, the Combine also serves as a test of a player’s mental toughness and preparation. The pressure of performing in front of NFL executives and coaches can be intense, and how a player handles that pressure can speak volumes about their character and ability to succeed at the next level. For Shemar Stewart, showing poise and confidence during interviews and tests will be just as important as his on-field performance. His ability to demonstrate leadership, focus, and resilience will play a critical role in shaping how NFL teams view him as a potential top draft pick.
Can Stewart’s Historic Combine Performance Translate Into a Top-Five Draft Pick?
The 2025 NFL Draft is expected to be loaded with top-tier talent, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Players like Jared Verse from Florida State, Dallas Turner from Alabama, and J.T. Tuimoloau from Ohio State are all expected to be in the conversation for high draft positions. For Shemar Stewart to secure a top-five spot, his Combine performance will need to rival or exceed those of his competitors.
However, it’s not just the Combine that will dictate Stewart’s draft status—his college performance at Texas A&M will be just as critical. His ability to disrupt offenses, generate pressure on quarterbacks, and be an anchor against the run will be key indicators of his future success in the NFL. Stewart has already proven that he has the physical tools to make an impact, but a historic Combine performance could elevate him from a top-10 pick to a top-five selection.
Several key factors will influence whether Stewart can secure a top-five pick:
1. The Need for Defensive Line Talent: In the 2025 draft, several teams will likely be looking for immediate contributors on the defensive line. Teams that need help in stopping the run, rushing the passer, or both, could be drawn to Stewart’s skillset. A standout Combine performance will only increase his appeal, especially to teams picking in the top-five who are looking to make an immediate impact with their first-round selection.
2. The Rise of Edge Rushers and Interior Linemen: In recent years, there has been an increasing premium on edge rushers and disruptive interior defensive linemen. With the NFL’s growing emphasis on passing attacks, the ability to generate pressure on the quarterback has become one of the most valuable skills in the league. If Stewart can show that he is capable of being a force both as an interior rusher and as an edge rusher, his stock will only rise. A combination of athleticism, strength, and versatility will make him a highly sought-after player, particularly for teams in need of a player who can rush from multiple positions on the defensive line.
3. The Impact of His On-Field Production: While the Combine is important, NFL teams will also be closely evaluating Stewart’s college tape. His ability to dominate against top competition, generate tackles for loss, and put pressure on quarterbacks will ultimately be a key part of his draft evaluation. If Stewart continues to produce at a high level during his final season at Texas A&M, a strong Combine performance could serve as the final piece in securing a top-five selection.
