Tyler Shough of the Saints Signs His Rookie Deal as NFL Draft Season Progresses

As training camps approach, all 32 NFL teams are set to begin preparations. However, tensions are rising as several rookies remain unsigned. In the 2025 NFL Draft, 257 players were selected, yet 31 were still without contracts leading into Thursday.

Among those, a significant hold-up exists with the second-round picks. Out of 32 players drafted in that round, only three had signed before Thursday morning. Recently, however, many players have begun to secure their deals, with 22 signing in just three days.

Nevertheless, eight players remain unsigned, which opens the door for possible holdouts. Let’s review the situation, particularly focusing on individual unsigned selections and the likelihood of their contracts being finalized before training camps kick off.

Unsigned First-Round Picks (1)

Shemar Stewart

Team: Cincinnati Bengals
Position: Defensive End
Draft Position: 17th Overall
Rookie Report Date: July 19

The Bengals have faced contract negotiation challenges with Stewart due to newly introduced contract language that hasn’t been utilized with previous first-round picks. Stewart’s disapproval of this contract language has led to a stalemate, with the prospect of a holdout looming if negotiations do not progress.

Unsigned Second-Round Picks (7)

Quinshon Judkins, RB, Browns (Report Date: July 18)
Will Johnson, CB, Cardinals (Report Date: July 22)
Aireontae Ersery, OT, Texans (Report Date: July 22)
Nic Scourton, LB, Panthers (Report Date: July 21)
Oluwafemi Oladejo, LB, Titans (Report Date: July 22)
Benjamin Morrison, CB, Buccaneers (Report Date: July 21)
Andrew Mukuba, Eagles (Report Date: July 22)

Signed Second-Round Picks (25)

A total of 25 second-round picks have already signed their rookie contracts, including notable players like:

Carson Schwesinger, LB of the Browns
Tyler Shough, QB of the Saints, who has secured a fully guaranteed contract, indicating his potential to be the starting quarterback for the Saints.

Shough’s recent contract includes a unique bonus structure, differentiating it from standard first-round agreements and providing him with a significant portion of his earnings upfront during training camp’s early stages.