Jets Expected to Select Top Defensive Prospect at No. 7 in 2025 NFL Draft
According to ESPN’s latest mock draft, the New York Jets are projected to strengthen their defense by selecting a standout prospect with the seventh overall pick.
One of the biggest names from the NFL Combine, Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart, has drawn comparisons to star pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney, and ESPN’s Jordan Reid predicts the Jets will secure his talents in the first round.
“New Jets head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey are in a prime position to add an impact defender alongside Pro Bowler Quinnen Williams and star cornerback Sauce Gardner,” Reid stated. “Stewart was the highlight of the combine, posting a 4.59-second 40-yard dash, a 40-inch vertical jump, and an impressive 10-foot-11 broad jump.”
Despite recording just 4.5 sacks over three seasons in college, Stewart’s raw potential is undeniable. His time to first pressure (2.43 seconds) was the fastest in the FBS, suggesting his ability to disrupt plays could be fully unlocked in the NFL. “He possesses a similar size and skill set to Clowney, making him a fit in any defensive scheme,” an NFL scout noted after his combine performance.
How Stewart Would Elevate the Jets’ Defense
Adding Shemar Stewart would be a major boost for a Jets team in transition. Over three seasons with the Texas A&M Aggies, Stewart established himself as one of the top edge rushers in the country, generating 39 total pressures over 315 pass-rushing snaps in 2024, per Pro Football Focus. His dominant physical attributes and relentless motor make him a highly sought-after prospect.
The Jets are undergoing a major rebuild, having moved on from quarterback Aaron Rodgers and wide receiver Davante Adams as they shift toward a new era. Following a disappointing 5-12 campaign last season and a combined 12-22 record over the past two years, New York is determined to return to playoff contention for the first time since 2010. Drafting a game-changing defensive force like Stewart could be a key step in that process.
