The San Francisco 49ers, one of the NFL’s top teams, face a critical decision in the 2025 NFL Draft: should they use their first-round pick on Shemar Stewart, a promising but “raw” defensive end (DE) from Texas A&M? This choice has sparked debate, especially since the 49ers need players who can make an immediate impact to stay competitive in the upcoming season. This article examines whether drafting a “raw” talent like Stewart is a wise move, focusing on his potential, his connection with star Nick Bosa, and the 49ers’ defensive philosophy.
Shemar Stewart’s Potential: A Raw Gem with Promise
Shemar Stewart is considered one of the most talented young DE prospects in this year’s draft. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 280 pounds, with explosive strength, Stewart has the physical traits any NFL coach would desire. However, he is still seen as “raw,” meaning his technique and experience need further refinement. During his time at Texas A&M, Stewart showed an ability to pressure quarterbacks but must improve his run defense and expand his pass-rush repertoire.
NFL history is filled with “raw” players who became stars after proper development. For instance, Jason Pierre-Paul was a risky first-round pick for the New York Giants in 2010 but later emerged as one of the league’s top DEs. If the 49ers are patient and invest in Stewart’s growth, he could become a cornerstone of their defense for years to come.
Connection with Nick Bosa: A Long-Term Strategy
A key factor in this decision is the chance for Stewart to learn from Nick Bosa, one of the NFL’s premier DEs. Bosa is not only a gifted player but also a leader who can mentor younger teammates. Having a mentor like Bosa could accelerate Stewart’s development and help him adapt to the NFL more quickly.
This approach isn’t just about Stewart’s individual improvement; it’s part of a broader strategy to create a formidable DE duo. Successful NFL teams often rely on two high-quality DEs to maintain constant pressure on quarterbacks. If Stewart reaches his potential, he and Bosa could form a pairing reminiscent of Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware, who helped the Denver Broncos dominate defensively.
The 49ers’ Defensive Philosophy
Drafting Stewart aligns with the 49ers’ philosophy under head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch: prioritizing defense, particularly the DE position, and developing young talent. The team has a track record of success with similar picks. Arik Armstead, once considered “raw,” has become a vital part of the defense. This focus on defense has kept the 49ers among the NFC’s elite, and Stewart could be the next piece in that puzzle.
However, a pressing question remains: does Stewart meet the 49ers’ immediate needs? The team is in win-now mode, aiming for a Super Bowl. A “raw” player like Stewart might not provide the instant impact required to maintain their short-term strength.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Benefits: A Calculated Gamble
To determine if drafting Stewart is a smart choice, both short-term and long-term factors must be weighed:
Short-term: Stewart may not be ready to contribute right away, as he needs time to adjust to the NFL’s speed and physicality. Given their immediate competitive goals, the 49ers might prefer a more polished player to fill the defensive gap. Long-term: Investing in Stewart could pay off handsomely. If he develops successfully, he could become a top-tier DE at a rookie contract price for several years, freeing up salary cap space for other positions. Additionally, pairing him with Bosa could make the 49ers’ defense a dominant force in the future.
Conclusion
Choosing Shemar Stewart in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft is a calculated risk for the San Francisco 49ers. While he may not make an immediate impact, his potential, the chance to learn from Nick Bosa, and the team’s defensive philosophy provide strong reasons to believe in him. If Stewart realizes his potential, he could bolster the defense and play a key role in the 49ers’ Super Bowl aspirations. Yet, whether he develops quickly enough remains uncertain, and only time will tell. What do you think of this pick?