Within a week, all 32 NFL teams are expected to report for training camp, but there could be a significant number of rookie holdouts. Out of the 257 players drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, 31 remained unsigned as of Thursday. Most teams struggled to get their second-round draft picks under contract—only three out of 32 second-round picks had signed by Thursday morning. However, there was a surge in signings over July 17 and 18, with 18 rookies agreeing to deals. Currently, 12 players remain unsigned and could potentially hold out.
The Cincinnati Bengals stand out as the only team yet to sign a top-two draft pick, embroiled in a contract dispute with first-round pick Shemar Stewart. The disagreement centers on contract language the Bengals added, which Stewart opposes; he has skipped all OTAs and did not practice at the mandatory mini-camp. This holdout reflects a similar pattern to last year when 31 draft picks were signed by mid-July, and the Bengals were the only holdout team.
Regarding second-round picks, 11 remain unsigned, including notable players like RB Quinshon Judkins (Browns), QB Tyler Shough (Saints), and LB Demetrius Knight Jr. (Bengals). Meanwhile, 21 second-round picks have signed. The hold-up in this round largely stems from contract guarantees. The Texans made history by offering wide receiver Jaden Higgins a fully guaranteed rookie contract—making him the first second-rounder ever to receive such terms. This move influenced the Browns and Dolphins to do the same for their second-round picks, setting a new precedent in rookie contracts.
Additionally, Saints QB Tyler Shough, picked 40th overall, is pushing for a fully guaranteed contract as he is expected to start this season. The contract of Quinshon Judkins remains uncertain following his legal troubles, and he has not reported to training camp. The 49ers eased the second-round signings logjam by agreeing to terms with DT Alfred Collins, who was the 43rd pick.
Fan Take: These rookie holdouts spotlight the evolving landscape of NFL contracts, particularly with increased guarantees in the second round, signaling a shift in player power and team strategies. For fans, it means heightened drama before the season even starts and could influence how teams build their rosters and manage rookie negotiations going forward.
