The Atlanta Falcons have taken an unprecedented approach to the NFL Scouting Combine.
Atlanta left all offensive assistants at home, deciding they would only interview defensive players at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine. One of the draft targets on the list for the Falcons is Texas A&M edge rusher Shemar Stewart.
It has been speculated that the Falcons would select an elite edge rusher or possibly a defensive back with the 15th pick in the NFL Draft. During the defensive linemen drills on Thursday, Shemar Stewart would have many prospective eyes upon him, and he did not disappoint.
We highlighted his strengths during our previous "Draft Spotlight" for Stewart. But on Thursday, Stewart showcased why he should be an early first-rounder. He did so while displaying the best defensive pro day on record.
Stewart already has the size to play the position, standing at 6-foot-5, 267 pounds. But his day would consist of grading as "Elite" in other categories. His 40-yard dash time would dazzle scouts running a 4.59, along with reaching a 40-inch vertical.
Scouts do seem to think that Stewart is a boom-or-bust talent. He would not particularly have the college resume to warrant using a first-round pick on his services, and fans know that the Atlanta Falcons aren't in the position to take on a "work in progress".
Stewart has also taken the initiative to drop a few pounds from his Senior Bowl weigh-ins. He wants to play lighter, and showcase his ability to get around NFL tackles.
It remains to be seen whether Stewart will be there when the Falcons are on the clock, but it should be noted that he has taken every step in the right direction to make him successful at the NFL level. After all, do we know if an NFL Draft pick is a contribute immediately player or a "Boom or Bust?" It's all a gamble.
