Cashius Howell’s historic rookie contract with the Bengals gives him the green light to finalize a major life goal
Cincinnati Bengals rookie defensive end Cashius Howell became the first player drafted outside the first round to sign a fully guaranteed rookie contract in team history. He’s putting that money to good use.
Cincinnati Bengals rookie defensive end Cashius Howell made history last week. Howell became the first Bengal drafted outside the first round to sign a fully guaranteed rookie contract.
Howell’s four-year, $12,008,000 deal features a $5,193,092 signing bonus, and $6,814,908 in fully guaranteed base salaries for the next four years. Every penny will find his bank account, even if he gets cut for performance issues.
The Bengals didn’t have a choice. Howell was the No. 41 overall pick in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft. The first 40 picks signed for 100% guaranteed deals, which became precedent last year, and every played picked between No. 42 and No. 48 received fully guaranteed deals as well.
Howell is secured for the next four years, which means a hefty investment is on the docket for him.
Cashius Howell set to buy house after signing rookie contract
Locking in $12 million guaranteed is more than enough for anyone to settle down and buy a house. It’s exactly what Howell intends to do with his newfound security.
“I’ve lived in apartments and dorm rooms since freshman year. From Bowling Green to A&M,” Howell told Bengals.com’s Geoff Hobson. “I’m ready to upgrade and get a house and maybe try to get a dog.”
Quite the upgrade indeed. Howell spent three years in Bowling Green before finishing his collegiate career at Texas A&M. The transfer proved to be a wise choice as he went on to become the 2025 SEC Defensive Player of the Year. His final year in college elevated him into first-round conversation, and only fell nine picks into the second round.
Draft status is such a huge factor in both short-term and long-term earnings. In 2024, only first-rounders signed fully guaranteed contracts. The push for the first eight picks of the second round joining the group last year paved the way for Howell to have his entire first contract as a professional guaranteed.
“It was a good feeling just to put it behind me and not have to worry about anything with finances,” Howell said. “The mindset is still the same. Just come in and do my part every day. Being on time, making sure I’ve got attention on every facet of the game.”
Howell is set to be an integral part of the Bengals’ defense from the jump. It’s a good thing he’s already setting roots like he’s going to be in town for a while.