Texas A&M Aggies edge rusher Shemar Stewart is quickly emerging as one of the most intriguing prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft. His skill set, size, and raw potential have already caught the attention of multiple NFL teams, with analysts now predicting that he could be the perfect fit for a playoff-contending AFC team in need of a game-changing pass rusher. However, the question remains: Can Stewart truly live up to the hype, or will the expectations surrounding him ultimately be too much?
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing in at 280 pounds, Stewart’s physical frame alone makes him a tantalizing prospect for NFL teams. His combination of length, strength, and speed allows him to overwhelm offensive tackles with ease. As an edge rusher, he exhibits the rare ability to bend the corner and generate consistent pressure, traits that are essential for success in today’s pass-heavy NFL. Over his career at Texas A&M, Stewart has demonstrated flashes of dominance, racking up sacks, tackles for loss, and forced fumbles. His athleticism is evident in his explosiveness off the line of scrimmage, and his hand usage continues to evolve, with improvements being made each season.
Yet, it’s not just Stewart’s physical tools that have NFL scouts intrigued; it’s also his mindset. Despite his youth, he has shown a mature approach to the game. Stewart is a player who studies film, understands his opponents’ tendencies, and adjusts his game accordingly. His high football IQ allows him to anticipate plays before they unfold, a rare quality in a player his age. This awareness, combined with his physical gifts, gives him a ceiling that few edge rushers can match. He’s not merely an athlete trying to survive in the NFL—he’s a student of the game, poised to elevate his craft and become a dominant force at the next level.
That said, the leap from college to the NFL is a massive one, and there are lingering doubts about whether Stewart can consistently produce against the best of the best. While he shows flashes of brilliance, his consistency has been called into question at times. There are instances where he disappears for stretches during games, which can be a red flag for an edge rusher. NFL teams, particularly AFC contenders who have championship aspirations, need a player who can bring pressure on every down, not just in bursts.
When looking at potential fits for Stewart in the AFC, one team stands out: the Miami Dolphins. Under head coach Mike McDaniel, the Dolphins have built a high-powered offense that is poised to contend for championships. However, their defense has been inconsistent, particularly in generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The Dolphins have been in search of a dominant edge rusher for years, and Stewart could be the answer. His unique combination of size, athleticism, and intelligence would make him a perfect complement to the Dolphins’ existing defensive roster. His ability to create havoc in the backfield would give Miami the defensive edge they’ve lacked in their pursuit of an AFC title.
The controversy surrounding Stewart’s fit in Miami stems from one key question: Is he ready to make an immediate impact? There are many who believe he is, citing his potential and the fact that a high-pressure system like Miami’s would only allow him to grow. However, others argue that Stewart still has a long way to go before he can handle the physical and mental demands of the NFL, particularly in a division that is home to elite quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes.
In conclusion, Shemar Stewart is a player who could change the landscape of an AFC contender’s defense. His raw talent is undeniable, and his future looks bright, but the path to success in the NFL is paved with obstacles. If he can refine his consistency and learn to handle the pressure, there’s little doubt that Stewart could become the edge rusher that takes a team like the Miami Dolphins to the next level. However, only time will tell if he can fulfill the immense potential that so many believe he has.
