Welcome Shamar Stewart

[Sled21]

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nfl/embattled-bengals-draft-pick-predicted-to-stand-out-from-rest-of-afc-north-rookies/ar-AA1DZsBG?ocid=entnewsntp&pc=U531&cvid=5c4498dea31f4eb697f4725f722e9488&ei=12

Quote:The Cincinnati Bengals entered the 2025 NFL draft with some obvious needs on defense and offensive line.

As a result, the team picked three defensive players and two offensive linemen with its six picks. Talented edge-rusher Shemar Stewart was the team's first-round selection, and gives the team a much-needed potential star on the edge.


In the second, the team added reliable off-ball linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. Knight's impact could be felt immediately, especially if Germaine Pratt's trade request is obliged.

Elsewhere, third-round pick Dylan Fairchild could challenge to start at guard, and Tahj Brooks could carve out a role in the running back rotation.

However, there's one player who seems to be the most likely to make a large impact in his debut campaign - Shemar Stewart.

Gavino Borquez of Newsweek thinks Stewart could make his presence felt immediately on the edge and believes he'll be one of the biggest stand out rookies in the AFC North in 2025. The Texas A&M product dominated at the combine in Indianapolis and has the physical traits to be elite.

Borquez offered the following analysis on Stewart's rookie season:

The Bengals' first-round selection of Stewart received mixed reviews because he's a toolsy player who didn't have the production in college of a first-round player. But the upside is through the roof, as he possesses elite athleticism and strength for a player of his size (6-foot-5 and 267 pounds). Stewart will learn from Trey Hendrickson, who will help unlock his full potential, while defensive coordinator Al Golden will get him up to speed quickly.

As Borquez mentioned, the selection of Stewart received mixed reviews. Stewart never produced much in college, ending with just 4.5 sacks over three seasons.

However, the defender tested like a surefire first-round selection and has everything (other than college production) that teams want in an edge-rusher prospect.


Cincinnati could be the perfect landing spot for Stewart, though. The team has Trey Hendrickson, who is one of the best pass-rushers in the league, meaning opposing offenses won't be able to focus on Stewart.

Additionally, Stewart can learn from Hendrickson how to turn that explosiveness, speed, and strength, into results. Veteran Sam Hubbard retired this offseason, so Stewart should step into a starting role immediately, assuming he can surpass the inconsistent Joseph Ossai.

There have also been rumblings of a Hendrickson trade this offseason. While it would likely benefit Stewart's development to keep the veteran around, a trade could also force Stewart to step up and produce from the beginning.

Either way, Stewart should be in a position to finally start producing those sacks that NFL evaluators are sure he can.