The Cincinnati Bengals made a significant move in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting Texas A&M edge rusher Shemar Stewart with the 17th overall pick, aiming to revitalize a struggling defense. The choice comes after the retirement of veteran Sam Hubbard and underwhelming performances from recent draft picks like Myles Murphy. Although Stewart is viewed as a project player with high potential, concerns were raised about his college production, particularly his low sack numbers, with only 4.5 sacks over three seasons. ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. highlighted the need for immediate impact on the defensive line, and the Bengals are left hoping Stewart can develop into a key player next to Trey Hendrickson, who is in the final year of his contract.

The Cincinnati Bengals hold the 17th pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, crucial for addressing needs on both the offensive and defensive lines. With their roster largely set through free agency, this draft represents a final chance to make significant improvements before training camp.

Key players such as Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins have been retained, while Trey Hendrickson and Germaine Pratt have requested trades, yet no deals have been finalized. Experts predict that the Bengals are likely to select Georgia edge rusher Mykel Williams as their first pick, while potential later-round selections include safety Xavier Watts from Notre Dame and guard Dylan Fairchild from Georgia.

The Cincinnati Bengals face a pivotal decision at No. 17 in the upcoming draft, with a pressing need for an edge rusher. One potential candidate is Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M, a player whose combination of size, speed, and power has intrigued scouts. Despite a lackluster college career, with only 4.5 sacks over three years, Stewart's athletic profile suggests he possesses the tools to thrive at the NFL level. The Bengals might see him as a valuable asset to complement their existing defensive line, particularly alongside Trey Hendrickson, who may be facing contract negotiations.

However, the question remains whether banking on Stewart's potential is wise given his inconsistent production. While his college role focused more on containment than aggressive pass rushing, many analysts believe that with the right coaching, particularly from Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden, Stewart could transform into a formidable pass rusher. As Cincinnati weighs its options, they must evaluate whether Stewart's traits outweigh his college production and if he can adapt to the demands of the professional game.

A recent discussion has emerged regarding the Cincinnati Bengals' potential trading of defensive end Trey Hendrickson, especially if they select a pass-rusher like Shemar Stewart in the first round of the NFL draft. ESPN's Peter Schrager hinted that acquiring Stewart could make Hendrickson's trade more feasible, although it raises questions about the wisdom of letting go of the reigning sacks leader mid-prime.

Trading a dominant player like Hendrickson, who has proven his capability with 4.5 sacks in college from Stewart, might seem risky. This speculation underscores the unpredictable nature of NFL drafts and team strategies as the Bengals prepare for their upcoming pick. With the draft now on the horizon, the fate of players like Hendrickson hangs in the balance.

The Cincinnati Bengals face a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the 2025 NFL Draft, currently holding the 17th pick. ESPN's Peter Schrager suggests they will select Mike Green, a standout defensive end from Marshall, who led the FBS with 17 sacks last season. This decision comes despite the presence of notable alternatives, including guard Grey Zabel and defensive linemen Kenneth Grant and Shemar Stewart. However, the selection of Green raises questions due to the ongoing trade request from veteran pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, who has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with contract negotiations.

The Bengals' strategy reflects their confidence in Green’s potential, despite concerns about the level of competition he faced in college. This choice may also affect the futures of current players like Joseph Ossai and Myles Murphy, who are vying for their positions in an evolving defensive lineup. As the draft approaches, the franchise's decision-making process will undoubtedly be influenced by these dynamics, especially with potential implications for their defensive strategy and roster stability.