Shemar Stewart’s Contract Drama: Could the Bengals Lose Their First-Round Pick? #ShemarStewart #BengalsRookieHoldout #NFLDraft2025 #TexasAMFootball #NFLContractDispute #BengalsNews #RookieDrama

 

Shemar Stewart’s Contract Drama: Could the Bengals Lose Their First-Round Pick?

Keywords: Shemar Stewart contract, Bengals rookie holdout, NFL Draft 2025, Texas A&M football, NFL rookie rules, Bengals news, Shemar Stewart update

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🏈 Who is Shemar Stewart?

Shemar Stewart, a 21-year-old defensive end from Texas A&M, was selected 17th overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2025 NFL Draft. With an estimated rookie contract value of $18.94 million over four years, expectations were sky-high for the young prospect.

But surprisingly, Stewart has refused to sign his rookie deal, sparking a potential legal and sporting standoff that could have serious consequences for both him and the Bengals.

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📉 Why Hasn’t Stewart Signed Yet?

Although rookie salaries are pre-determined by the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement, Stewart’s delay isn’t about money. According to sources, the dispute involves unusual language the Bengals allegedly included in his contract.

Specifically, it's said the team added new clauses that weren’t present in the contracts of their previous two first-round picks—possibly aimed at limiting their financial exposure if Stewart were injured.

Stewart stands firm on his position, stating confidently:

“I’m 100% right.”

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🏟️ Back to College? The A&M Loophole

In an unexpected move, Stewart has returned to College Station, practicing with his former Texas A&M teammates. While this could be a simple way to stay in shape, insiders believe Stewart may be eyeing a rare loophole:
He could re-declare for the NFL Draft in 2026 by enrolling for his senior college season—effectively bypassing the Bengals.

NFL rules give him until Week 10 of the 2025 season (November) to sign with Cincinnati. If he refuses, he could become eligible again next year and be selected by another team.

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🌀 Trade, Draft, or Stay?

Analysts suggest Stewart has three possible options:

1. Sign with Bengals before the Week 10 deadline

2. Return to college and re-enter the draft in 2026

3. Request a trade to another NFL team

His current training activity with Texas A&M may indicate that returning to college is a serious consideration, especially if relations with the Bengals remain “toxic,” as reported by CBS Sports analyst Bud Elliott.

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💸 What’s at Stake?

• Contract Value: $18.94 million (fully guaranteed)

• Team Fit: Stewart was drafted to be a key part of Cincinnati's defensive rebuild

• Reputation: Rookie holdouts are rare in the modern NFL and can impact a player's public image and future opportunities

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📈 SEO Summary: Why This Story Matters

Shemar Stewart’s rookie contract saga is gaining attention due to its legal implications, potential draft loophole, and the rare scenario of a first-round NFL pick possibly opting out before even playing a game. This developing situation could set a new precedent for how rookies handle contentious contract language.