Shemar Stewart breaks the deadlock and signs with a new team
The rookie has finally gotten over the impasse and signed a new deal.
The impasse between Shemar Stewart and the Cincinnati Bengals is over. The defensive tackle has signed a fully guaranteed contract with the team and will now be able to participate in the remainder of training camp without issue—this despite the franchise owner previously stating he wasn’t willing to pay someone who “could end up in jail.”
Stewart’s agent, Zac Hiller of the Los Angeles Angels, told ESPN that the deal is worth $18.97 million over four years, including a $10.4 million signing bonus. The contract follows the NFL’s rookie pay scale, as Stewart was selected 17th overall in the 2025 draft.
According to that scale, Stewart will earn a base salary of approximately $3.4 million in 2025, rising to $4.3 million in 2026, $5.1 million in 2027, and $6.02 million in 2028.
The Florida native played three seasons at Texas A&M, appearing in 37 games and tallying 65 tackles, 4.5 sacks, four pass deflections, two fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble.
The standoff with Bengals management centered on contract language. Stewart insisted on full guarantees, while team owner Mike Brown wanted clauses that would allow the organization to void the deal without financial obligation if Stewart violated NFL policy or faced incarceration.
Just in: Shemar Stewart and the Cincinnati Bengals reached agreement on a four-year, fully guaranteed $18.97 million contract that includes a $10.4 million signing bonus, per his agent Zac Hiller of LAA.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 25, 2025
Every 2025 first-round pick now has a deal. pic.twitter.com/LU3vRJEl9v
With Stewart’s situation now resolved, the Bengals can turn their attention to defensive end Trey Hendrickson’s contract. Hendrickson is aiming to become the highest-paid player at his position, targeting a deal that would eclipse T.J. Watt’s and command an annual salary north of $41 million.
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