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Debate

Is Evan Stewart the next big thing in college football, or just another overhyped player?

Evan Stewart, one of Oregon’s highest-rated wide receivers, has already made quite a name for himself. A former five-star prospect, Stewart had played impressive football at Texas A&M before hitting the portal in December last year. In the Aggies jersey, Stewart snagged 38 passes for 514 yards and four touchdowns. The receiver also had a killer start of 19 catches for 257 yards and two TDs in the first two games.

If you still have not seen him play, let me tell you that Stewart’s an absolute beast on the gridiron! Thanks to his insane track-and-field skills, he was ranked among the best in the 2022 class. But where did it all begin for the receiver? Here’s what you need to know about the academic journey of the WR. 

Stewart has always been athletically gifted

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Born and raised in Frisco, Texas, Evan Malik Stewart started showing his prowess on the gridiron in high school. While Stuart did just fine in academics, he always stole the spotlight in athletics. Stewart attended Liberty High School in Frisco, Texas, where coach Jason Witten first noticed his receiving skills. Coach Witten took Stewart under his wing and leveled up Stewart’s receiving game, making him better and better. 

A 2022 Under Armour All-American, Stewart crushed it on the field and the track. In his senior year, he grabbed 22 catches for 487 yards and three TDs in just three games. Stewart was just as impressive as a junior, with 46 receptions for 913 yards and nine scores. When Stewart wrapped up his high school career, he had 111 catches, 2,157 yards, and 21 touchdowns. 

On top of his football prowess, Stuart dominated in track, winning the Texas 5A long jump title with a leap of 24’6.5″ and snagging a silver in the triple jump (48’9″). He also anchored gold and silver medal-winning relay teams in the 4x400m and 4x200m. One complete athlete!

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Evan Stewart’s future at Oregon

What’s your perspective on:

Is Evan Stewart the next big thing in college football, or just another overhyped player?

Have an interesting take?

Stuart has quickly become one of the critical players on the Ducks’ roster. Stewart’s set to fill the shoes of Troy Franklin, who just got drafted by the Denver Broncos, as a starting wideout. Stewart, who stepped back during his sophomore year, is more prepared than ever and can rush for 1,000 yards this fall for the Ducks. The wide receiver also has a quality offense around him, and coach Dan Lanning calls plays. 

Head coach Lanning only has great things to say about the receiver. “I think after the spring, he’s one of the best at attacking the ball in the air,” said Lanning. “Certainly, has speed right and continue to look for him to ramp it up and elevate his game for us.

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If that’s not enough, 247Sports scouting analyst Gaby Brooks had promising things to say about the elite receiver. In Stewart’s scouting report, Brooks described Stuart, who stands at 6-0,175 pounds, as an “Adequate-sized receiver with lean, hyper-athletic build.” Brooks also noted how much havoc the receiver can wreak on the gridiron owing to his heavy athletic background.  “Pairs those qualities (track and field abilities) with elite natural receiver skills,” said Brooks, and you will have a player who “tracks well downfield and displays terrific adjustment abilities and body control when required.” 

It’s safe to say that Stewart will fare as a high-impact player for Oregon this season. However, only time will tell how he matches up with the other elite receivers. What do you think about the receiver’s performance this fall? Share your thoughts in the comments below.