The Cincinnati Bengals made waves in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting Texas A&M edge rusher Shemar Stewart with the No. 17 overall pick. While some analysts questioned the move due to Stewart’s relatively low sack numbers in college, one person who had no doubts about his potential was his former teammate, Bengals defensive tackle McKinnley Jackson.
Jackson, who was drafted by the Bengals in the third round last year, has seen Stewart’s talent firsthand. He quickly came to his defense, dismissing concerns about his production and emphasizing the impact Stewart had on the field. “People have been having speculations about his production, but I mean, you turn the tape on and you see what you see,” Jackson said. He pointed out that Stewart played alongside several highly-rated recruits, making it harder for him to rack up individual stats. However, Jackson insisted that Stewart’s presence was undeniable and that his numbers didn’t tell the full story.
Stewart’s draft stock skyrocketed after an impressive performance at the NFL Combine. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 267 pounds, he showcased his athleticism with a blazing 4.59-second 40-yard dash, a 40-inch vertical jump, and a near 11-foot broad jump. These numbers highlighted his explosiveness and raw potential, making him an enticing prospect for the Bengals.
Jackson is confident that Stewart will thrive in Cincinnati. He believes Stewart’s ability to disrupt plays and collapse the pocket will translate well to the NFL. “I’m banking on him. I got all my dollars on him, right now,” Jackson said, expressing his unwavering belief in his former teammate’s ability to succeed at the next level.
The Bengals have been focused on strengthening their defensive line, and Stewart’s addition is expected to bolster their pass rush. With Jackson already on the roster, the two former Texas A&M teammates will have the opportunity to reunite and bring their chemistry to the Bengals’ defense. Jackson’s support and mentorship could play a crucial role in Stewart’s development, helping him adjust to the demands of professional football.
While some critics remain skeptical, Jackson’s endorsement carries weight. He has seen Stewart’s work ethic and talent up close, and he is convinced that the Bengals made the right choice. As Stewart begins his NFL journey, he will have the chance to prove his doubters wrong and validate Jackson’s confidence in him.
The Bengals’ decision to draft Stewart may have raised eyebrows, but if Jackson’s assessment is correct, Cincinnati could have landed a future star. With his athleticism, determination, and the backing of a trusted teammate, Stewart is poised to make an impact in the NFL. Now, it’s up to him to turn his potential into production and show the league why Jackson is betting everything on him.
