Grover Stewart

Stewart went under-recruited out of Mitchell County High School and signed with Division-II Albany State. He made an immediate impact, starting in the 2013 season opener, finishing his true freshman season with 36 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and 5.0 sacks to earn First Team All-SIAC honors. He started all 10 games as a sophomore and posted 39 tackle, 13.0 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks to earn Second Team All-SIAC honors. Stewart again started all 10 games as a junior and led the team with 15.0 tackles for loss and 7.0 sacks, adding 39 tackles to earn First Team All-SIAC honors. He missed one game as a senior and finished with 37 tackles, 12.0 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks and one forced fumble, earing First Team All-SIAC honors. Stewart was the starting left defensive end in the Golden Rams' base 3-4 scheme, but was often moved to rush from different angles and gaps. He is a coordinated big man and physical bully, beating blockers with his natural size and gifts more than technique or efficient hand moves. High pads are a frequent issue on tape and often brings his pass rush to a halt, negating his raw power. Stewart is more of a flash performer than consistent playmaker, showing that he can rush the passer and anchor vs. the run, but lacks polish. While he faces a large jump in competition and isn't ready to make a NFL impact today, Stewart could push for steady snaps by year two of his pro career.

strengths

Massive frame with a strong trunk, meaty hips and distributed mass. Rare body control for a player his size and weight, staying balanced in space. Initial quickness to create momentum and work through bodies. Flashes the quick hands to grab, pull and shed with aggression. Country strong and presses blockers into the backfield. Maintains his spot and anchors well, holding up vs. doubles. Easy ankle flexion to change directions without gearing down mid-pursuit. Knock-back tackler and looks to punish. Four-year starter with consistent production with 48.5 tackles for loss in 39 career games - received First Team All-Conference honors three times and Second-Team honors once.

weaknesses

Pads rise off the snap, weakening his power source. Above average upper body power, but needs to better unleash it. Doesn't properly use his reach to maintain spacing at the point of attack and avoid getting covered up. Doesn't always stick to the plan as a pass rusher and lacks the efficient hand moves to break down blockers. Has improved his backfield vision, but his mental process needs sped up. Needs to better use his length to elevate into passing lanes and knock down passes at the line of scrimmage. Weight needs monitored - listed below 300 pounds at Albany State, but was close to 350 pounds at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl. Didn't face top-tier competition at the Division-II level.

At Mitchell County

Played for Dondrial Pinkins

also participated in track.