All 32 NFL teams are set to report to training camp within a week, yet many rookies remain unsigned. From the 257 players drafted in 2025, 31 had not signed contracts as of Thursday morning. Most notably, almost the entire second round has been slow to agree to deals, with only three of 32 second-round picks signing by that time. However, a surge over the past three days saw 22 rookies sign contracts, leaving eight still unsigned.
The only first-round rookie unsigned is Shemar Stewart of the Bengals. Contract negotiations between Stewart and Cincinnati have stalled due to a disagreement over contract language, which Stewart opposes and the team insists on. He missed all offseason training activities and only attended but did not practice in the mini-camp, making a potential holdout likely.
In the second round, seven players remain unsigned, including Browns running back Quinshon Judkins and Cardinals cornerback Will Johnson. Conversely, 25 second-round picks have signed deals. Part of the delay stems from contract guarantee disputes, sparked by the Texans offering wide receiver Jaden Higgins a fully guaranteed rookie contract—an NFL first for a second-round pick. This move pressured other teams like the Browns to provide similar guarantees, creating a ripple effect. Additionally, Saints quarterback Tyler Shough sought a fully guaranteed contract, given his anticipated starter role, adding further complexity to negotiations. Judkins, who faces legal troubles, has not reported for training camp and may face disciplinary action.
Shough reportedly secured a fully guaranteed deal recently, allowing him to receive major compensation upfront during training camp.
Fan Take: These rookie holdouts and contract guarantee disputes highlight a shifting landscape in rookie negotiations, signaling players’ growing leverage even early in their careers. For NFL fans, this could mean more high-profile holdouts and contract standoffs in the future, affecting team chemistry and preseason preparations.
