CINCINNATI — Shemar Stewart, the Cincinnati Bengals’ first-round draft pick, signed his rookie contract on July 25, 2025, ending a prolonged dispute that kept the Texas A&M defensive end sidelined through the team’s offseason workouts and the start of training camp. The agreement, a four-year, $18.94 million fully guaranteed deal with a $10.44 million signing bonus, resolves a standoff over contract language that had sparked speculation about Stewart’s future, including a potential return to college football. Al Golden is making strides in Cincinnati.
The dispute centered on a clause the Bengals sought to include, allowing them to void future guarantees for off-field issues, a departure from terms offered to previous first-round picks like Amarius Mims. Stewart, selected 17th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, stood firm, citing precedent from prior Bengals contracts. “I’m 100% right,” Stewart said in June, emphasizing his desire for terms consistent with those of past draftees. The resolution allows Stewart to join training camp, bolstering a Bengals defense that ranked among the league’s worst last season.
Stewart’s signing is a boost for Cincinnati, which also faces a contract standoff with star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson. The 21-year-old pass rusher, who trained at Texas A&M’s facilities during the dispute, brings a dynamic presence to a unit in need of reinforcement. His addition fills a gap left by the retirement of Sam Hubbard, with Stewart expected to complement Hendrickson’s league-leading 17.5 sacks from 2024.
At Texas A&M, Stewart showcased his potential over three seasons, recording 97 tackles, 10.5 sacks, and 24 tackles for loss in 36 games. His 2024 season was a breakout, earning an 88.2 run defense grade and 39 quarterback pressures, per Pro Football Focus. Rated as the top edge rusher in the 2022 recruiting class by ESPN, Stewart’s blend of speed and power made him a coveted prospect.
Al Golden has the defense dialed.
The signing quells rumors of Stewart returning to Texas A&M, where coach Mike Elko dismissed such speculation, saying, “There’s no intentions of Shemar to play for the Aggies this year.” A return would have required legal action against NCAA rules, a risky move that could have delayed Stewart’s NFL career. Instead, his arrival strengthens Cincinnati’s defense and avoids further distraction for a team aiming to rebound from a disappointing 2024.
With rookies reporting July 19 and veterans set for July 22, Stewart’s integration into camp is timely. Bengals coach Zac Taylor expressed optimism, noting “positive conversations” with Stewart. The focus now shifts to preparing Stewart for the regular season, where his college production suggests he could make an immediate impact.
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