Josaiah Stewart, a dynamic defensive end, has made significant strides in college football, showcasing his prowess at both Coastal Carolina University and the University of Michigan. His journey reflects a commitment to excellence and adaptability, culminating in a national championship victory with Michigan in 2023.
Early Life and High School
Born on April 26, 2003, in the Bronx, New York, Stewart attended Everett High School in Everett, Massachusetts. During his junior year, he recorded 30 tackles, 14 tackles for a loss, 7 sacks, and a fumble recovery. His senior season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this setback, Stewart was recognized as a three-star recruit and committed to play college football at Coastal Carolina University. citeturn0search0
Coastal Carolina Career
In 2021, Stewart made an immediate impact at Coastal Carolina, setting a program record with four sacks in a single game against Georgia Southern. He concluded his freshman season with 43 tackles, 16 tackles for a loss, 13 sacks, and three forced fumbles, earning first-team All-Sun Belt Conference honors and a first-team Freshman All-American selection. The following year, he recorded 36 tackles, 10 tackles for a loss, three sacks, and a forced fumble, earning second-team All-Sun Belt honors. Over his two years at Coastal Carolina, Stewart amassed 79 tackles, 25.5 tackles for a loss, 16 sacks, and four forced fumbles. citeturn0search0
Transfer to Michigan
After the 2022 season, Stewart transferred to the University of Michigan to further his collegiate career. In his first season with the Wolverines in 2023, he appeared in all 15 games, recording 38 tackles, 8.5 tackles for a loss, 5.5 sacks, and two pass breakups. His performance was instrumental in Michigan’s national championship victory, where he was second on the team in sacks. citeturn0search0
Senior Season and NFL Prospects
Entering his senior season in 2024, Stewart was recognized as the No. 9 ranked edge rusher in college football by Pro Football Focus. He served as a team captain and continued to excel, recording 33 tackles, leading the team with 13 tackles for a loss, 8.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. His impressive performance earned him a second-team All-Big Ten selection. In December 2024, Stewart declared for the 2025 NFL Draft and opted out of his final bowl game. Over his four-year college career, he accumulated 150 tackles, 48 tackles for a loss, 30 sacks, and six forced fumbles. citeturn0search0
Scouting Report
Stewart is lauded for his impressive pass-rushing abilities, boasting 30 career sacks. He exhibits a quick burst off the line of scrimmage, enabling him to win with speed around the edge. His pass-rush moves are well-developed, utilizing techniques such as stemming, euro-steps, and a solid rip move to gain leverage against offensive tackles. Stewart’s versatility and high effort make him a promising prospect for the NFL. citeturn0search4
Conclusion
Josaiah Stewart’s collegiate journey from Coastal Carolina to Michigan exemplifies his growth and adaptability as a defensive end. His contributions were pivotal in Michigan’s national championship win and have solidified his status as a top prospect for the upcoming NFL Draft. Stewart’s dedication and performance on the field have set a high standard for future athletes in his position.
