Devy Diamonds: Evan Stewart, Wide Receiver, Oregon
Welcome to Devy Diamonds: Evan Stewart was a 5-star prospect out of Liberty High School in Frisco, Texas. He was a highly scouted wide receiver who received early comparisons to Philadelphia Eagles receiver DeVonta Smith. During his high school career, he received 30 Division-I offers. In February of 2021, he had committed to Texas before retracting that commitment in March of the same year. Later that year, in November of 2021, he committed to A&M to play 2 seasons. Once the 2023 season was complete Stewart would enter the transfer portal. In January of 2024, he committed to Oregon.
Through 10 games in his freshman season, Stewart caught 53 passes from 103 targets for 649 yards. This led to hope of a possible breakout sophomore season.
Evan Stewart played in one less game in 2023 but saw a big digression. He only had 38 receptions from 62 targets. The upside was that he saw a slight progression in yards per catch with 13.5 for a total of 514 receiving yards.
2024 Outlook: What to Expect
The Devy community is patiently waiting for the breakout season from Evan Stewart. Many had him as the WR1 of the 2025 class heading into last season. However, that might not be the case heading into the 2024 season. Stewart has been a Devy Diamond since his freshman year, however, this year could be his breakout season. The Oregon offense is known for its high tempo, innovative play-calling, and emphasis on explosive plays. With this new type of scheme, Stewart can showcase his athleticism and playmaking abilities, unlike his time at Texas A&M, where the offensive scheme may have been more conservative. Oregon’s dynamic system is designed to maximize the potential of speedy, versatile receivers like Stewart.
Plus, the addition of an experienced quarterback in Dillon Gabriel will benefit the Oregon receivers. Gabriel excels at distributing the ball quickly and accurately to his receivers. This should give Stewart ample opportunities to leverage his precise route-running and playmaking abilities. Additionally, Oregon’s strong offensive line and balanced attack will keep defenses from focusing solely on the passing game. On another note, Stewart should gain more one-on-one matchups playing opposite veteran receiver Tez Johnson. Evan Stewart’s athleticism will truly shine in Eugene.
Strengths:
- Elite athleticism. His unique blend of speed and agility allows him to be maneuvered all around the field. Because of this, he is a threat in the area of the passing game.
- Catching. Stewart has reliable hands and a knack for making difficult catches looking routine. His ability to maintain focus under pressure makes him a dependable target for his quarterback.
- Route running. He excels in his route-running technique, displaying precision and crispness in his movements. Plus, he has a diverse route tree, creating separation with sharp cuts and sudden bursts of speed.
- Field awareness. He understands defensive coverages well and is adept at finding soft spots in zones.
- Speed. His slender frame allows him to burst in and out of his routes. He can take the top off the defenses, however, his speed allows him to make quick adjustments in man-to-man coverages.
Areas of Improvement
- Size. At 6’0, about 175 pounds, Stewart is not the most physically imposing receiver. He can struggle against more physical cornerbacks, particularly in press coverage.
- Blocking. His smaller frame also impacts his effectiveness as a blocker. He may have difficulty holding blocks against larger defenders. This could limit his versatility having minimal usage in the run game.
- Consistency. This could be due to a lack of quarterback play, but at times he struggled to find his footing in some games.
- Yards-After-Catch ability. Stewart has the speed and elusiveness to gain separation, but only 21% of his yards come from yards-after-catch. In an Oregon offense, he will need to do more once the ball is in his hands.
Draft Stock: Eligible 2025
Consensus Projected Draft Capital: Day 1 prospect
Personal Projected Draft Capital: Day 1 prospect
Ideal Landing Spot: Miami Dolphins
Evan Stewart, with his slender frame and blazing speed, faces a unique transition to the NFL. His physical build could initially present challenges when facing more physical NFL competition. However, Stewart’s quickness and sharp route-running can help mitigate these concerns. His ability to create separation with his footwork and speed will make him a valuable target. Moreover, his experience against top-tier college competition at Oregon will have prepared him for his next chapter. To maximize his potential, NFL teams might employ ways that minimize contact at the line of scrimmage, such as using him in motion. If he were to join the Miami Dolphins he would join a veteran wide receiver room built on speed.
In an offense like Miami’s, which heavily leverages the skill sets of its wide receivers, Evan Stewart could thrive. The Dolphins’ system is designed to create space and utilize speed. This is a perfect fit for a receiver like Stewart. He could serve in a role similar to that of their current start wide receivers. Stewart can be used for quick slants, screens, and deep routes to maximize his speed. Miami’s offense under head coach Mike McDaniel is known for his innovative play designs that often place receivers in optimal positions to succeed. With Tua Tagovailoa’s accuracy and quick release, Stewart could become a significant threat on short and intermediate routes. This utilization would allow him to build confidence and gradually adapt to the physicality of the NFL while making an immediate impact.
Sooner rather than later Miami will be forced to think about their passing attack without star receiver Tyreek Hill. By drafting Evan Stewart and pairing him with Jaylen Waddle they avoid any sort of backtracking. The strategic move ensures that the Dolphins maintain a potent receiving corps. With Waddle and Stewart, Miami would boast two of the faster and more agile receivers in the league. Stewart’s presence would also alleviate some of the defensive focus on Waddle, allowing both receivers to benefit from the attention each command. This pairing with give Miami a formidable one-two punch at wide receiver. As Stewart develops alongside Waddle, the Dolphins’ offense could remain one of the most dangerous in the NFL.
Fantasy Impact
Oregon wide receiver Evan Stewart is poised for his breakout campaign. This means he could make a significant fantasy impact for your college teams, as well as, future NFL teams. Stewart’s agility allows him to create separation from defenders, making him a possible target machine in an Oregon offense. Plus, his ability to change direction swiftly while accelerating out of his cuts should enable him to gain receptions and yardage. Oregon’s offense is known for creating big plays for their impact players. This means fantasy managers will appreciate having Stewart on their rosters. In his new offensive scheme, he could find a knack for making those big plays. If one is entering a startup Devy Draft, then it is worth drafting Stewart with a top 5 pick.
Additionally, Stewart’s versatility enhances his potential in both real-life and fantasy football. He is capable of lining up in multiple positions to exploit mismatches. His proficiency in running routes from the slot, as well as on the outside, makes him a dynamic weapon in any offensive system. This adaptability not only ensures consistent involvement in the game plan but also maximizes his fantasy value. Evan Stewart’s comprehensive skill set positions him as a promising asset at the next level. If one needs a wide receiver, then trading for a potential top 7 2025 rookie draft pick may be a move to consider. Stewart, unless he returns, will be a top wide receiver in the 2025 NFL Draft class.
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