What happens if Shemar Stewart returns to college?
The Bengals retain his draft rights until the 2026 NFL Draft.
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Shemar Stewart's Unprecedented Contract Standoff with Bengals | Leo Chenal Free Agency Outlook: Potential Roles and Team Fits | Titans Sign Former Chiefs CB Joshua Williams | Chargers Sign Cole Strange to Bolster Offensive Line | Eagles 7-Round NFL Mock Draft 2026: Reshaping the Roster | 2026 Free Agent Forecast: Patriots Focus on Offensive Line | Eagles Eye Jalon Kilgore as Reed Blankenship's Future Remains Uncertain | Broncos Release Linebacker Dre Greenlaw | Patriots Eye Tight End Isaiah Likely to Support Drake Maye | Shemar Stewart's Unprecedented Contract Standoff with Bengals | Leo Chenal Free Agency Outlook: Potential Roles and Team Fits | Titans Sign Former Chiefs CB Joshua Williams | Chargers Sign Cole Strange to Bolster Offensive Line | Eagles 7-Round NFL Mock Draft 2026: Reshaping the Roster | 2026 Free Agent Forecast: Patriots Focus on Offensive Line | Eagles Eye Jalon Kilgore as Reed Blankenship's Future Remains Uncertain | Broncos Release Linebacker Dre Greenlaw | Patriots Eye Tight End Isaiah Likely to Support Drake Maye
NFL / Contracts
Shemar Stewart's Unprecedented Contract Standoff with Bengals
Cincinnati Bengals' first-round pick Shemar Stewart is in a contract dispute with the team over specific language demands. In an unprecedented move, Stewart is working out with his former college team, Texas A&M, and considering returning t...
Key Insights
- Shemar Stewart is holding out due to disagreements over contract language with the Bengals.
- He is working out with Texas A&M, exploring a return to college football.
- NFL rules stipulate that if Stewart returns to college, the Bengals retain his draft rights until the 2026 draft.
- This situation could set a new precedent, potentially allowing drafted players to return to college.
- **Why this matters:** This standoff could reshape NFL draft eligibility and contract negotiation strategies.
In-Depth Analysis
Shemar Stewart's contract holdout with the Cincinnati Bengals has taken an unexpected turn. Stewart is reportedly back at Texas A&M, participating in workouts and contemplating a return to college football. This move is driven by a disagreement over contract language, with Stewart objecting to clauses that would void his guarantees under certain conditions.
The Bengals' stance on contract language may stem from past experiences, such as issues with their third-round pick, Jermaine Burton. However, Stewart's camp views the situation differently, questioning why he should be subject to such stringent terms.
If Stewart successfully returns to college football, it could establish a new precedent. The NFL's Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) addresses this possibility, stating that the drafting team retains exclusive rights to the player until the subsequent draft. This means Stewart would be treated as a Bengals draft pick in 2026, preventing him from re-entering the draft next year.
This situation highlights the growing financial incentives for college athletes, with Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals offering substantial earnings. The potential for college players to return to school after being drafted could disrupt the NFL draft process and create new negotiation dynamics.
FAQ
Can Stewart re-enter the NFL draft next year if he returns to college?
No, he would be treated as a Bengals draft pick in 2026.
What are the Bengals' concerns regarding contract language?
They may be influenced by past issues with player conduct, leading to stricter contract terms.
Takeaways
- Shemar Stewart's contract dispute could change the landscape of NFL draft eligibility.
- The growing financial incentives in college football may lead more players to consider returning to school after being drafted.
- This situation highlights the ongoing tension between NFL teams and players regarding contract terms and guarantees.
Discussion
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