According to the Collective Bargaining Agreement, Cincinnati Bengals rookie first-round pick Shemar Stewart has the option to enter the 2026 NFL Draft if he doesn't sign a deal with the team.

Shemar Stewart, the 17th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, has left the Cincinnati Bengals' minicamp as he and the team remain in conflict over his rookie contract.

So, in theory, Stewart could sit out and re-enter the 2026 NFL Draft, which would be a crucial blow after the Bengals used a first-round pick on him. Even more surprising is the fact that he could go back to college, but Florio says there are some legal battles that would have to be fought on that front.