ESPN's Ben Solak Ranks Shemar Stewart Among Top-Four Rookie of the Year Candidates

The path is there for this to happen for the first time in Bengals' history.

Cincinnati Bengals first-round draft pick Shemar Stewart listens to questions from reporters during a press conference, Friday, April 25, 2025, at Paycor Stadium in Downtown Cincinnati. , Friday, April 25, 2025, at Paycor Stadium in Downtown Cincinnati. | Frank Bowen IV/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

CINCINNATI — ESPN's Ben Solak broke down the offensive and defensive rookie of the year hierarchy following the 2025 NFL Draft and had Shemar Stewart high on his list.

He thinks Stewart has the fourth-best chance to win the award compared to his betting odds (roughly 16-1 depending on the sportsbook), which are eighth-highest among defensive rookies.

Stewart checked in behind Mykel Williams (49ers), Jalon Walker (Falcons), and Abdul Carter (Giants).

"The remaining candidates in the back half of the first round are Bengals edge rusher Shemar Stewart, Falcons edge rusher Pearce, and Bills corner Maxwell Hairston," Solak wrote. "All three are great options. Stewart should get a ton of the snaps opposite Trey Hendrickson, and if Hendrickson plays for the Bengals in 2025, his gravity could create plenty of sack opportunities for Stewart on the other side."

It could be a perfect DROY storm for Stewart if Hendrickson sticks around and has another stellar season. The two could feed off of one another and completely juice up the Bengals pass rush.

Add in strong Pro Football Focus run defense numbers from Stewart and he could be able to stay on the field enough to impact the DROTY race. No Bengal has ever won the AP version of the award.

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