Shemar Stewart, a powerhouse edge rusher and one of the most dominant names from the 2025 NFL Draft, is now at the center of a major NFL controversy. Drafted 17th overall by the Cincinnati Bengals, Stewart hasn't signed his rookie deal, citing a contract dispute that’s sparking comparisons to past holdouts like Joey Bosa’s in 2016.
Let’s break down Shemar Stewart's stats, draft journey, contract battle, and what this could mean for the Bengals—and the NFL.
🔍 Who is Shemar Stewart?
Shemar Stewart is a 6'5", 275-pound pass-rushing beast who starred at Texas A&M. A former five-star recruit (ranked No. 9 overall by 247Sports), he exploded onto the national scene with elite plays, a monster frame, and a RAS (Relative Athletic Score) of 9.43. NFL scouts were wowed by his power, footwork, and explosiveness.
📊 Shemar Stewart Stats & Highlights
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| College | Texas A&M |
| Position | EDGE / DE |
| Height/Weight | 6'5", 275 lbs |
| 40-Yard Dash | 4.69 seconds |
| RAS (Athletic Score) | 9.43 / 10 |
| 2024 Season Stats | 52 tackles, 9 sacks, 3 FF |
📹 Highlights: From crushing QBs to shutting down run plays, Stewart’s tape is loaded with first-round-caliber performances. Check PFF and 247Sports for full breakdowns.
💥 NFL Draft & Contract Expectations
Stewart was expected to sign a 4-year, $18.94 million fully guaranteed rookie deal. So why hasn’t he?
The Bengals inserted a “default clause” in Stewart’s contract—an unusual move not seen in their past rookie deals. This clause would allow the team to void future guarantees in case of off-field issues, suspensions, or "any other" problems they define. Stewart refused.
“I'm not asking for anything you all have never done before,” Stewart said. “You all just want to win an argument instead of winning more games.”
And just like that, Shemar Stewart’s contract dispute became one of the most heated standoffs in recent rookie history.
⚖️ The Leverage Game: NIL, Money, and Power
Most rookies don’t hold out long because they need that signing bonus. But not Shemar Stewart.
Thanks to lucrative NIL deals from his time at Texas A&M (reportedly over $1 million), Stewart isn’t desperate. His financial cushion gives him rare leverage to push back—and possibly reshape how rookie contracts work in the future.
🛑 Bengals Drama: Not Their First Rodeo
The Bengals have a recent track record of contract friction:
- Ja'Marr Chase skipped 2024 camp over his deal.
- Trey Hendrickson (their sack leader) is also holding out.
- Even Joe Burrow had enough: “Of course,” he replied when asked if the drama was distracting.
And now Shemar Stewart joins the chaos—without playing a snap.
🧨 Stewart's Options: Could He Burn the Bengals?
🔁 1. Re-Enter the 2026 NFL Draft
Under Article 6 of the CBA, if Stewart refuses to sign by Week 10, he can re-enter the 2026 NFL Draft. No team (including the Bengals) could draft him twice. It's a nuclear option, but it’s legally viable.
🔄 2. Request a Trade
If another team is willing to respect Stewart’s contract preferences, he could be traded—but only before August 5–8, due to CBA restrictions. It’s unlikely, but not off the table.
🎓 3. Return to Texas A&M?
Wild, but possible. Stewart has reportedly been training at College Station and might exploit NCAA legal gray areas to return for his senior season. Lawsuits would follow, but as analysts say: “Everything with the NCAA is subject to litigation.”
🔥 NFL & NCAA Collision Course?
Stewart’s situation isn’t just a holdout—it's a battle between player empowerment and NFL rigidity. With NIL money, legal options, and a principled stance, Stewart is a modern athlete using all tools at his disposal.
And the Bengals? They may lose their top rookie before he even hits the field.
📰 Latest Shemar Stewart News [2025]
- 🏋️ Training at Texas A&M while refusing Bengals camp
- 📉 Bengals defense in crisis (both Stewart & Hendrickson are out)
- 📺 Watch: Stewart highlights on YouTube and PFF film room
- 📌 Trending on Google, Twitter, and 247Sports Forums
📎 Final Thoughts: Who Blinks First?
Shemar Stewart isn’t just a talented athlete—he’s an intelligent, business-savvy player reshaping the rookie narrative. Whether he suits up for the Bengals or not, his story is one of principles, power, and possibility.