Josaiah Stewart, EDGE, Michigan
Size:
Height: 6010
Weight: 249
Arm: 31 ⅞”
Hand: 9 ½”
Accomplishments:
Second-Team All-Sun-Belt (2022) • Freshman All-American (2021) • First-Team All-Sun-Belt (2021)
“Josaiah Stewart is an explosive edge rusher with the speed and tenacity to excel in the NFL. He’s poised to become a game-changing asset in an NFL defense.”
Strengths:
Elite explosiveness off the snap
Tenacious football player
NFL-caliber speed rusher
Concerns:
Length
Average NFL run defender
Size limits his roles
Film Analysis:
Josaiah Stewart, a former freshman standout at Coastal Carolina, has transitioned into a significant role on one of the top defensive fronts in the country. Quickly establishing himself as one of the premier edge defenders in college football, Stewart made headlines during his freshman season by recording a program-record 12.5 sacks. Now playing for the Wolverines, he has become a persistent threat to opposing offenses, thanks to his ability to cover ground effectively and pressure the quarterback consistently.
Stewart’s most noticeable traits are his speed and explosion off the ball. He possesses the twitch and anticipation to challenge opposing linemen from the start of each play. As a true speed rusher, his impressive motor and tenacity complement his strength and toughness. He brings a unique intensity to his game. Observing the league's best edge defenders, regardless of size, reveals that a common denominator is playing with tenacity and leverage—qualities that Stewart excels in.
Looking ahead to Stewart’s NFL prospects, I am confident that a team will find a role for him, although I am unsure what that role will be. I believe there is potential for him as a second-level defender in coverage. When Stewart enters the league, I don’t anticipate him being an every-down player. However, teams that can position him effectively will benefit from a highly impactful football player.
Overall, my assessment of Stewart is that he has the motor and movement ability to wear many hats in an NFL defense, primarily serving as a penetrating run defender and designated pass rusher. As mentioned earlier, there is also potential for him as a coverage defender or spy. With all this in mind, I believe Stewart would be a valuable asset for creative coordinators throughout the league.
Prospect Projection: Day 2 — Winning Starter
Exposures: Fresno State (2024), Texas (2024), USC (2024)
