Defensive end Shemar Stewart may have recorded just 4.5 sacks in three seasons at Texas A&M, a modest total that doesn't typically scream "top draft pick" to teams needing pass rushers. However, his physical traits and potential have captured the NFL's attention, making him a promising candidate for a high selection in next month's draft.
In his latest mock draft for CBS Sports, Kyle Stackpole has the San Francisco 49ers using the 11th overall pick to add Stewart to a defensive line that struggled to generate pressure last season. To make matters worse, the 49ers parted ways with defensive end Leonard Floyd, who ranked second on the team with 8.5 sacks.
The departures of Javon Hargrave and Maliek Collins further weakened the defensive front.
"The 49ers lost three contributors along the defensive line during free agency, so they need to replenish the cupboard," Stackpole wrote. "San Francisco bets on the upside with Shemar Stewart, who tested like Myles Garrett at the NFL combine but only managed 4.5 career sacks over three seasons in college. Lucky for him, he'll get to refine his pass-rush skills opposite all-world edge Nick Bosa."
At the NFL Scouting Combine, Stewart posted a 4.59-second 40-yard dash and a 10-foot-11 broad jump, surpassing Garrett's numbers. His athleticism score of 84 from Next Gen Stats ranked fourth among edge rushers.
In addition to his 4.5 career sacks, Stewart recorded 65 tackles (12 for loss), four passes defensed, and a forced fumble over three seasons at Texas A&M, according to Sports Reference.
In 2024, Stewart earned career-high defensive grades of 79.5 (overall) and 88.2 (run defense) from Pro Football Focus, recording a career-best 39 pressures. However, his 44.7 tackling grade indicates room for improvement at the NFL level.
