The Cincinnati Bengals, as expected, mostly focused on the defensive side of the ball in the 2025 NFL draft. Fueling the rebuild under the supervision of new (and returning) coordinator Al Golden, the Bengals grabbed a high-upside pass-rusher in the first round before doubling down on the linebacker twice over their first four picks.

The Bengals made six picks where every single one comes with strengths of maturity, leadership, responsibility and accountability.

Here's how NFL draft experts and analysts from around the league grade the Bengals' first-round selection of Shemar Stewart.