Bengals Sign 17th Overall Pick Shemar Stewart, Making Him the Only First-Round Draft Pick Still Unsigned

In a significant development, the Cincinnati Bengals have finally signed their only unsigned first-round draft pick, Shemar Stewart, according to reports. The deal was agreed upon just after the article cut off, bringing an end to a lengthy and intriguing holdout.

Who is Shemar Stewart?

Shemar Stewart, a defensive back from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, was selected by the Bengals with the 17th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. The talented rookie was expected to make an immediate impact on the team's secondary, and his signing is seen as a major coup for the Bengals' front office.

The Holdout

Stewart had been refusing to sign his rookie contract, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering what was behind his decision. The reasons behind his holdout were not disclosed, but it was speculated that Stewart may have been seeking additional compensation or wanting to make sure he understood the terms of his deal.

Why This Matters

With Stewart now signed, the Bengals' roster is complete, and the team can focus on preparing for the upcoming season. The signing also sends a message to other unsigned players that the Bengals are committed to making their roster full and competitive.

Impact on the Bengals' Offseason

The signing of Shemar Stewart marks an important milestone in the Bengals' offseason. It shows that the team is serious about building a championship-caliber squad and is willing to invest in its young talent. The deal also sets the stage for the team's preparations for the upcoming season, as they look to build on their 2022 playoff run.

Next Steps

Now that Stewart has signed his contract, the Bengals can focus on addressing other roster needs. With their roster complete, the team can shift its attention to developing its young players and building a deep, talented squad.

Shemar Stewart's Profile

• Position: Defensive Back
• College: University of Nebraska-Lincoln
• Draft Status: 17th Overall Pick (2023 NFL Draft)
• Contract Status: Signed Rookie Contract

Conclusion

The signing of Shemar Stewart marks a significant milestone in the Bengals' offseason. With their only unsigned first-round draft pick now under contract, the team can focus on preparing for the upcoming season. This deal demonstrates the Bengals' commitment to building a competitive squad and investing in its young talent.

As the NFL prepares for another exciting season, fans are eager to see how the Bengals will perform with Stewart and the rest of their roster on board. With a full roster and a talented group of players, the Bengals are poised to make some noise in 2023.