Bengals Ink Shemar Stewart to Massive Rookie Deal, Leaving Just One Draft Pick Unsigned

The Cincinnati Bengals have officially locked in their first-round pick, defensive standout Shemar Stewart, solidifying a crucial piece of their future defense. According to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Stewart and the Bengals have agreed to terms on a fully guaranteed four-year deal worth $18.97 million. The contract includes a whopping $10.4 million signing bonus, highlighting the team’s belief in Stewart’s potential as an instant-impact player.

Stewart, who was a top pass-rushing prospect in this year’s draft, was selected to bolster the Bengals’ defensive line—a unit in need of youth and explosiveness. Known for his relentless motor and versatility, Stewart is expected to compete for a starting role as early as Week 1. His signing brings an end to one of the Bengals’ most-watched contract negotiations of the offseason.

With Stewart now officially on board, the 2025 rookie signing class is nearly complete across the NFL. Only one name remains unsigned: Quinshon Judkins, the second-round pick of the Cleveland Browns. The star running back out of Ole Miss was drafted to add depth and explosiveness to a backfield that has undergone transition this offseason, especially after the departure of Kareem Hunt.

While there’s no official word on what’s causing the holdup with Judkins’ contract, it’s unusual for a second-round pick to remain unsigned this late into the preseason. Sources suggest contract language around guaranteed money may be the sticking point.

As training camps kick into high gear, all eyes are now on Cleveland to get the deal done before Judkins misses any more valuable reps. Meanwhile, Cincinnati fans can finally celebrate—Shemar Stewart is a Bengal.