Former Texas A star Shemar Stewart signs rookie deal with Bengals after contract standoff

Shemar Stewart is officially a Bengal.

The former Texas A&M defensive lineman and No. 17 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft has signed his fully guaranteed four-year rookie contract, according to his agent to what had become one of the draft’s most drawn-out rookie negotiations.

According to reports, Cincinnati dropped its push for contract language that would have set a new precedent, clearing the way for Stewart to report to camp on time.

While Stewart’s talent was never in question as the 6-6, 275-pound pass rusher was a dominant force throughout his college tenure, his contract was delayed over a dispute in guarantee language.

The Bengals were reportedly seeking offsets and injury protections beyond what’s typical for a mid-first-round selection. Stewart’s camp pushed back, not wanting to allow Cincinnati to set a new league standard that could affect future deals.

In the end, the Bengals relented. Stewart’s deal is now fully guaranteed, as expected for a top-20 pick.

Stewart was a five-star recruit and one of the anchors of Texas A&M’s star-studded 2022 signing class. In College Station, he developed into a disruptive edge presence, known for his explosiveness off the line, great use of his hands, and ability to set the edge against the run.

He finished his junior season with 31 tackles and 6 tackles for loss, drawing first-round buzz throughout the pre-draft process. The Bengals selected him at No. 17 overall with hopes that he could step in and contribute immediately to a front seven in need of athleticism and versatility.

Now that he’s signed, that process can finally begin.

Cincinnati took a hard stance here then blinked. Stewart got his full guarantee, and the Bengals avoided a prolonged holdout.

Now the focus shifts to the field, where Shemar Stewart will look to prove he’s worth every dollar of that rookie deal and then some.