Bengals Eye Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart to Bolster Struggling Defense

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly targeting Texas A&M defensive standout Shemar Stewart with the No. 17 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, as the team seeks to address critical weaknesses in its defensive line. The move comes after a disappointing season where the Bengals missed the playoffs for the second consecutive year, largely due to defensive struggles.

“Trey Hendrickson is one of the NFL’s best edge rushers, but the Bengals need an upgrade on the other side of their defensive line,” wrote analyst Brentley Easterline. “Stewart is a versatile defender with the size and skill set to play out on the edge or slide inside, making him an ideal fit for Cincinnati.”

Stewart, a 6-foot-6, 285-pound defensive lineman, has drawn attention for his rare combination of size and athleticism. Over his three-year college career, he recorded 4.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss, earning a career-best 79.5 overall grade in his final season. His 88.2 run defense grade highlights his ability to stop the run, a critical need for the Bengals.

“Overall, Stewart is a rare athlete with an exceptional combination of size and athleticism,” Easterline added. “With proper coaching and development, he has the potential to transform into a premier pass rusher at the NFL level.”

The Bengals’ defensive line faces significant uncertainty heading into the 2025 season. Trey Hendrickson is entering the final year of his contract, while veteran Sam Hubbard is a potential cap casualty. Additionally, interior linemen Jay Tufele and B.J. Hill are set to become free agents, leaving gaps that Stewart could help fill.

Stewart’s versatility is a key factor in his appeal. Analysts note his ability to play both on the edge and inside, making him a valuable chess piece for defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. “He’s the type of player who can anchor a defensive line for years to come,” said one scout. “His ceiling is among the highest of players entering the league.”

The Bengals’ defense ranked near the bottom of the league in both pass rush and run defense last season, making Stewart’s potential impact even more significant. If selected, he would join a team eager to return to playoff contention and provide much-needed support for Hendrickson and the rest of the defensive unit.

The 2025 NFL Draft is set to take place in April, and the Bengals are expected to prioritize defensive reinforcements. Stewart’s selection would mark a significant step in addressing the team’s most pressing needs as they aim to rebuild their defense and return to championship form.