UNC cornerback MJ Stewart was one of nine players recognized late Thursday evening as a top performer at practice for Saturday’s Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama.

Senior Bowl officials named Stewart the top defensive back in this week’s practices, which could go a long way in improving his NFL Draft stock once April rolls around.

As part of the South roster for the event–which annually pits the top seniors in college football against one another in front of pro scouts and coaches–Stewart is working under the Houston Texans’ coaching staff, which is led by Bill O’Brien.

The Denver Broncos’ staff is in charge of the North roster, with the game scheduled to be played Saturday at 2:30 p.m.

So far in the lead-up to the game, however, Stewart has turned heads on the practice field–especially with his work in one-on-one drills where his natural talent shines through.

Throughout his career as a Tar Heel, Stewart had 41 pass breakups–setting a new school record in the process.

Former UNC defensive coordinator Gene Chizik, who coached Stewart for two years in Chapel Hill, weighed in on Twitter as soon as news started leaking out about his former pupil’s performance.

 

 

Photo via Jeffrey A. Camarati (UNC Athletics)