The Emergence of Shemar Stewart at the NFL Combine
Shemar Stewart, a relatively unknown figure in the world of NFL Draft prospects, made a significant impact at the recent NFL Combine in Indianapolis. Despite his modest college career at Texas A&M, where he recorded 65 total tackles and 4.5 sacks over three seasons, Stewart’s performance at the combine has thrust him into the spotlight. His selection to the 2024 All-SEC Third Team and the 2022 SEC All-Freshman Team hinted at his potential, but it was his jaw-dropping display of athleticism that truly turned heads.
A Physical Specimen Takes the Field
Stepping onto the field at the NFL Combine, Stewart’s imposing physical presence was immediately apparent. Standing at 6-5 and weighing 267 pounds, he showcased a combination of size and quickness that set him apart from his peers. By shedding weight from his Senior Bowl appearance, Stewart solidified his status as one of the most physically dominant edge rushers in this year’s draft class.
Drawing Parallels with Past Greats
Comparisons to past NFL stars further underscored Stewart’s potential. Myles Garrett, the first overall pick in 2017, shared similar physical dimensions with Stewart, highlighting the latter’s elite stature. Other top draft picks like Will Anderson Jr., Chase Young, and Aidan Hutchinson provided additional context, showcasing Stewart’s place among some of the league’s most coveted defensive prospects.
A Display of Explosive Speed
During the combine, Stewart’s exceptional speed was on full display. His 4.59-second 40-yard dash, with a remarkable 1.60 split, ranked among the top edge rushers in the class. This feat, combined with his explosive athleticism, positioned Stewart as a standout performer in a field of elite talents.
Dominating the Jump Drills
Stewart’s prowess extended beyond speed, as he dominated the jump drills at the combine. Leading all edge rushers with a 10-foot, 11-inch standing broad jump and a 40-inch vertical jump, Stewart showcased his explosive power and agility. His exuberant reaction to his broad jump victory captured the passion and determination that define his approach to the game.
Understanding Relative Athletic Score
The concept of Relative Athletic Score (RAS) provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating prospects based on their athletic testing results. By converting various measurements into a standardized scale, RAS offers a holistic view of an athlete’s capabilities. Stewart’s impressive 9.99 RAS reflected his exceptional size, speed, and explosiveness, earning him the distinction of the third-best score ever among 1,802 defensive linemen.
In conclusion, Shemar Stewart’s remarkable performance at the NFL Combine has catapulted him into the upper echelons of this year’s draft class. With a rare blend of size, speed, and athleticism, Stewart has proven himself as a formidable prospect with the potential to make a lasting impact at the professional level. As the football world eagerly awaits the NFL Draft, all eyes are on Stewart, a rising star whose journey is only just beginning.