Bengals DT McKinnley Jackson excited about team’s selection of Texas A\&M’s Shemar Stewart, praising his potential impact.

In the ever-evolving world of the NFL, where every draft pick can either become a star or a forgotten name, the Cincinnati Bengals’ decision to select Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M has generated quite a buzz. Among the most enthusiastic voices is McKinnley Jackson, a defensive tackle (DT) for the Bengals who is no stranger to the challenges of succeeding at the professional level. McKinnley, having navigated the demanding path of the NFL himself, expressed his excitement at the team’s decision to bring in Stewart, a promising young talent with a skill set that could contribute to the Bengals’ defensive dominance for years to come.

McKinnley Jackson’s Journey to the NFL

Before diving into why McKinnley Jackson is so thrilled with the Bengals’ decision to select Shemar Stewart, it’s important to understand Jackson’s own journey and his perspective on what makes a successful draft pick. A former standout defensive lineman at the University of Alabama, Jackson’s rise to the NFL was the result of his consistent hard work, versatility, and relentless drive. His experience in both college football and now in the NFL gives him an insightful perspective on what traits to look for in a young, unproven player.

Jackson’s path to the NFL wasn’t without its hurdles. He had to prove his worth, battling through injuries, competing against some of the best talent in college football, and eventually transitioning to the professional ranks. This long road instilled in him a deep understanding of the value of both physical tools and mental toughness—a combination that has helped Jackson thrive in the highly competitive environment of the NFL.

It’s this same understanding that fuels his excitement about Stewart’s potential impact on the Bengals’ defense. Jackson knows the importance of building a strong defensive front, and he believes that Stewart is the kind of player who can make a difference in both the short and long term.

The Bengals’ Focus on Strengthening the Defense

For a team like the Bengals, which has enjoyed substantial success in recent years, the key to continued contention lies in its defense. The Bengals have made significant strides in building a balanced roster under head coach Zac Taylor. Offensively, the team has had standout performances from quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receivers like Ja’Marr Chase, but it’s been the defense, led by defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, that has helped elevate the Bengals into Super Bowl contenders.

While the Bengals have a solid defense, there’s always room for improvement, especially in the trenches. The defensive line is a critical part of any defense, and a strong pass rush can make or break games. After all, defensive tackles are tasked with stopping the run and collapsing the pocket on passing plays. This is where the Bengals saw the potential for Shemar Stewart to step in and make an immediate impact.

Why Shemar Stewart?

Shemar Stewart, a product of Texas A&M, was highly regarded coming into the draft as one of the top defensive line prospects in the country. His combination of size, athleticism, and potential to disrupt plays made him a coveted commodity. Standing 6’5” and weighing 290 pounds, Stewart has the ideal frame for an NFL defensive lineman. But it’s not just his size that makes him special—his quickness, strength, and ability to explode off the line make him a unique talent.

Jackson, who has seen plenty of great defensive players come and go, recognizes these traits in Stewart. “He’s got all the tools,” Jackson said. “I see a lot of myself in him. He’s big, strong, and relentless. But more than that, he’s got a work ethic that’s second to none. I know he’ll fit right in with what we’re trying to build here.”

For a defensive tackle like Stewart, it’s essential to be able to control the line of scrimmage, and that’s precisely what he does. His ability to disrupt the run game and rush the quarterback gives him the flexibility to play in multiple defensive schemes, which is especially valuable in the NFL, where versatility is key to remaining unpredictable. Stewart also possesses impressive hand placement and awareness in battle situations, which makes him an ideal fit for the Bengals’ aggressive defense.

But it’s not just about physical attributes—Stewart’s mental makeup is just as impressive. McKinnley Jackson is quick to point out that football IQ is just as crucial for a defensive tackle as athletic ability. “You can’t just rely on your physical gifts at this level. You’ve got to know what’s coming before it happens. You’ve got to read offenses and recognize tendencies,” Jackson explained.

Stewart has shown that he can do just that. His time at Texas A&M demonstrated his ability to diagnose plays quickly, anticipate the movement of offensive linemen, and adjust to different blocking schemes. Jackson sees in Stewart a player who’s not just a physical force, but someone who understands the intricacies of the game.

The Role of Mentorship in the Bengals’ Defensive Line

One of the aspects of the Bengals’ defensive line that sets them apart is the sense of camaraderie and mentorship that exists among the players. Jackson, now a seasoned veteran, takes great pride in helping guide the younger players on the team. This includes sharing his own insights and knowledge of the game, helping younger players like Stewart adjust to the speed and demands of the NFL.

“I know what it’s like coming in as a rookie, trying to find your way. I want to help him out with that,” Jackson said. “He’s got the physical tools to succeed, but it’s the mental side of the game that can make all the difference. That’s something I’m happy to share with him.”

Stewart will likely benefit from Jackson’s experience, and that mentorship could accelerate his development. Jackson understands that young players need more than just physical guidance—they need mental fortitude, discipline, and the ability to handle the adversity that comes with being a rookie in the NFL. Jackson has been through the ups and downs of an NFL career, and his leadership will be invaluable for Stewart as he navigates the complexities of professional football.

The Future of the Bengals’ Defensive Line

With Stewart added to the mix, the Bengals’ defensive line becomes even more formidable. The Bengals already have a strong front with players like Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard, but Stewart brings an additional dimension to the group. His ability to generate pressure on the quarterback, while also being a force against the run, will make it more difficult for opposing offenses to attack the Bengals’ defense.

For Jackson, the arrival of Stewart represents the continuation of the Bengals’ long-term plan to dominate on defense. “We’re building something special here,” Jackson said. “Having young guys like Shemar come in and bring that kind of talent is what we need to stay at the top. We’re going to be tough up front, and that’s going to make all the difference.”

While it’s still early to predict just how Stewart will perform in his first season, the expectations are high. If he can live up to the potential McKinnley Jackson sees in him, the Bengals could have a defensive front that is capable of challenging some of the best teams in the league.