**Ex-1st-Round Selection Shemar Stewart Might Surprise Fans by Returning to Texas A&M**
When Shemar Stewart arrived at Texas A&M as a five-star recruit in the 2022 class, expectations were sky-high. The 6’6”, 290-pound defensive lineman was viewed as a future first-round NFL Draft pick, a game-wrecker who could anchor the Aggies’ defense for a few seasons before making the leap to the pros. After a solid but unspectacular freshman year and a breakout sophomore campaign, many assumed Stewart would declare for the 2024 NFL Draft, where he was widely projected as a potential Day 1 selection. But in a move that has stunned analysts and fans alike, whispers are growing louder that Stewart might bypass the draft—at least for now—and return to College Station for another season.
If true, this decision would send shockwaves through the college football landscape. Stewart’s return would instantly make Texas A&M’s defensive line one of the most feared units in the nation, bolstering a team already looking to rebound under new head coach Mike Elko. But why would a player with first-round potential choose to delay his NFL payday? The answer may lie in a combination of unfinished business, the changing landscape of NIL, and the allure of being the centerpiece of a resurgent Aggies squad.
Stewart’s time at Texas A&M has been productive but not yet legendary. As a true freshman in 2022, he flashed dominance in spurts, finishing with 23 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks while playing behind upperclassmen. In 2023, he took a major leap, racking up 8.5 sacks and 12.5 tackles for loss, earning All-SEC honors and establishing himself as one of the most disruptive interior defensive linemen in college football. Yet despite his success, the Aggies as a team fell short of expectations, finishing 7-6 in what would be Jimbo Fisher’s final season.
For a competitor like Stewart, leaving without a championship—or at least a marquee bowl win—might feel like an incomplete mission. The arrival of Mike Elko, the former Duke head coach and Texas A&M’s defensive coordinator during Stewart’s freshman year, adds another layer of intrigue. Elko’s defenses are known for their aggressive, attacking style, and Stewart thrived under his system in 2022. Returning for another year would allow him to be the undisputed leader of a defense that could rank among the nation’s best, potentially elevating his draft stock even further while chasing an SEC title.
Another factor that can’t be ignored is the impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. While NFL rookie contracts are lucrative, first-round picks—especially those selected in the mid-to-late portion of the round—don’t always land life-changing money immediately. With NIL, a player of Stewart’s caliber can command seven-figure earnings while still in college, mitigating the financial urgency to turn pro.
Texas A&M’s NIL collective, the 12th Man+ Fund, is one of the most robust in the country. If Stewart returns, he would undoubtedly be one of the program’s highest-earning athletes, with endorsement deals that could rival what he might make as a rookie in the NFL. Given that staying an extra year could also position him for an even higher draft selection—and thus a more substantial second contract—the financial calculus may favor a return.
The 2024 NFL Draft is loaded with elite defensive line talent, headlined by prospects like Ohio State’s JT Tuimoloau, Florida State’s Jared Verse, and Illinois’ Jer’Zhan Newton. While Stewart would likely be a first-rounder in this class, he could be competing with a dozen other defensive linemen for top-15 consideration. By returning for 2024, he could position himself as the *clear* top interior defensive lineman in the 2025 draft, where the competition might be less crowded.
Additionally, another year of development—particularly in refining his pass-rush moves and consistency against double teams—could push him into the top-10 conversation. NFL scouts already love his combination of size, power, and athleticism, but with another season of elite production, he could solidify himself as a Myles Garrett-level prospect.
If Stewart does return, the ripple effects for Texas A&M would be enormous. The Aggies’ defense, which already features standouts like linebacker Taurean York and cornerback Tyreek Chappell, would instantly become one of the most formidable units in the SEC. Stewart’s presence would command double teams, freeing up edge rushers like Nic Scourton (Purdue transfer) to wreak havoc off the edge.
More importantly, his leadership would be invaluable for a team undergoing a coaching transition. Elko’s arrival has brought optimism, but replacing a coach like Jimbo Fisher—who recruited at an elite level but underperformed on the field—is never easy. Having a veteran star like Stewart in the locker room could help bridge the gap between the old regime and the new one, setting the tone for a culture of accountability and toughness.
NFL scouts and draft analysts are split on Stewart’s decision. Some believe he has already shown enough to be a surefire first-rounder and that returning carries unnecessary risk. Others argue that another year of dominance could make him a lock for the top half of the first round, with one AFC scout telling *Sports Illustrated*, “If he comes back and puts up 10+ sacks, he’s a top-10 pick. No question.”
Meanwhile, Texas A&M insiders suggest that Stewart has been noncommittal in private conversations, leaving the door open for a surprise return. His family has reportedly emphasized the value of education and maturation, which could play a role in his decision-making.
As the deadline for underclassmen to declare for the NFL Draft approaches, all eyes are on Shemar Stewart. If he chooses to return, it would be one of the most impactful retentions in college football this offseason, signaling that Texas A&M is ready to compete immediately under Elko. If he leaves, the Aggies will still have a strong defense but will need younger players to step up in a big way.
For now, the possibility remains alive. And if Stewart does run it back for one more year in College Station, the rest of the SEC—and the nation—should be on notice. A motivated Shemar Stewart, with another year of experience and a point to prove, could be the most terrifying defensive force in college football in 2024.
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Texas A&M fans will be holding their breath until the final decision is made. And if Stewart does return, Kyle Field might just become the loudest stadium in America next fall.
