Bengals DT McKinnley Jackson Thrilled With Pick Of Texas A&M Aggies’ Shemar Stewart
The Cincinnati Bengals made a bold statement in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting Texas A&M defensive end Shemar Stewart, a move that has resonated strongly within the Aggies community—none more than with current Bengals defensive tackle McKinnley Jackson. A former teammate and veteran leader at Texas A&M, Jackson expressed overwhelming excitement and confidence in Stewart’s potential to thrive in the NFL.
“I’m thrilled, man. Absolutely thrilled,” Jackson said in a post-draft interview. “Shemar’s a dog. He’s got that raw power, the quick twitch, the mentality you need to succeed in this league—and now he’s right here with me in Cincy. Couldn’t be a better fit.”
Jackson and Stewart shared the trenches in College Station during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, where their physical presence and synergy helped anchor a formidable Aggies defensive front. Jackson, now entering his second year with the Bengals after being drafted in 2024, played a mentor-like role to the younger Stewart, who emerged as a top-tier pass rusher and run stopper during his junior season.
At 6-foot-6 and 270 pounds, Stewart earned All-SEC honors in 2024 after recording 10.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss. His blend of size, athleticism, and relentless motor made him a coveted prospect among NFL scouts. For the Bengals, whose defensive line is already stacked with talent like Trey Hendrickson and BJ Hill, Stewart’s addition brings a new level of versatility and future upside. With Jackson in the interior and Stewart on the edge, Cincinnati is poised to develop one of the most dynamic young defensive fronts in the AFC.
Jackson believes Stewart’s transition to the professional level will be smooth, especially with familiar faces around him. “When you’re stepping into the league, it helps having someone in the room who knows you—not just your game, but who you are,” Jackson said. “He’s already got that trust with me. I’ll help guide him through the grind of this league. He’s hungry. He listens. And he’s ready.”
Stewart, who was projected as a mid-to-late first-round pick, landed at No. 28 overall, a spot many analysts believe could turn out to be one of the steals of the draft. His explosiveness off the line and high football IQ give him the potential to make an immediate impact, especially in rotational packages early in his rookie season.
Head coach Zac Taylor praised Stewart’s character and competitiveness, noting how Jackson’s strong endorsement of his former teammate played a role in final evaluations. “McKinnley spoke highly of Shemar—not just as a player, but as a teammate and a worker. That carries weight,” Taylor said.
As offseason workouts approach, the buzz in Cincinnati continues to build. With Jackson’s leadership and Stewart’s raw ability, the Bengals are shaping a defensive unit that could wreak havoc for years to come. For Jackson, it’s more than just a reunion—it’s the start of something special.
“Watch out,” Jackson said with a grin. “We’re about to make some noise.”
