The Cleveland Browns have claimed CB M.J. Stewart off waivers on Saturday.
Released by Tampa Bay, Stewart was drafted by the Buccaneers in the second round of the 2018 draft (53rd overall).
M.J. Stewart is a native of Arlington, Virginia and played college football at the University of North Carolina.
UNC Highlights
Stewart hit the ground running by playing 12 games as a true freshman at UNC.
He became the full-time starter in the next 3 seasons.
Stewart ended his career as a First-Team All-ACC player.
He holds the UNC record for the most pass career breakups with 41, breaking Robert Williams record of 40 set in 1997.
The scouting report for Stewart (prior to the 2018 draft) called him a versatile and physical back who was adept at getting in the proper position to not be boxed out from the ball.
Really enjoyed UNC CB M.J. Stewart's film. Very versatile. Has experience at outside corner, nickel, and strong safety. Huge contributor since his true freshman season and he loves tackling. Lots of intriguing traits with him. Reminds me of Kareem Jackson. pic.twitter.com/9y38jeMR0K
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) April 2, 2018
Bucs Highlights
Run It Up One Day At A Time 💰💹 https://t.co/fZBLkvlqaC
— Mj Stewart (@Checkout_Marv) August 1, 2018
Stewart played 11 games (started 5) in his rookie season.
He recorded 31 solo tackles and 3 pass deflections.
A foot injury kept him out of 5 games and ultimately cost him his starting job in 2018.
In 2019, he nearly matched his 2018 stats in 10 games, 28 solo tackles, and 2 pass deflections.
He only started in 1 game during the 2019 season.
Stewart suffered from a knee injury that plagued him for the second half of the season.
At 24 years of age, he faced stiff competition from 2019 Tampa Bay CB draftees Jamel Dean and Sean Murphy-Bunting.
He is entering the 3rd year of a 4 year $ 5.08 million dollar contract.
Stewart adds more depth to a talented Browns CB contingent consisting of Denzel Ward, Greedy Williams, Terrance Mitchell, and Kevin Johnson.
M.J. Stewart is active in philanthropy work and established the MSMJ Youth Foundation with his father Marvin Stewart Sr. to promote youth involvement in sports.
Children from all walks of life are mentored by adults to gain self-awareness and confidence by playing sports.
Welcome to Cleveland, M.J. Stewart!