The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine officially began with its first round of drills on Thursday. Defensive linemen and linebackers were the first position groups to take the field in Indianapolis.

Among the top prospects in action, Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr. and Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart stood out during the opening day of workouts.

Stewart impressed during the vertical jump, broad jump, and 40-yard dash, while also weighing in lighter than he did at the Senior Bowl. However, after completing his second 40-yard dash, Stewart was unable to participate in the remaining drills.

On Thursday night, NFL Network’s Stacey Dales shared the reason behind Stewart’s absence: a minor hamstring injury. “He underwent an MRI, and he told me he actually tweaked his hamstring during his first 40,” Dales reported. “He wasn’t too worried about it and remained in great spirits. That’s why he sat out the rest of the drill work.”

Dales also mentioned that Stewart is expected to recover without issue. Luke Easterling of Athlon Sports highlighted Stewart as one of the players who helped their draft stock on Day One. In his latest mock draft, Easterling projected Stewart to be selected 15th overall by the Atlanta Falcons.

NFL.com analyst Chad Reuter also included Stewart on his “Stock Up” list, capping off a successful day for the Texas A&M pass rusher. Stewart wrapped up his 2024 college season with 31 total tackles, six tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. Despite tweaking his hamstring and skipping further drills, Stewart’s outlook remains positive.