What Happened
The Cincinnati Bengals are currently facing a contract dispute with their first-round draft pick, Shemar Stewart, who has not participated in mandatory minicamp due to being unsigned. Stewart, selected as the 17th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, has publicly expressed his frustration with the team’s approach to contract negotiations. He stated that the Bengals seem more focused on “winning arguments” than on fostering a successful team environment. This situation is compounded by the absence of another key player, Trey Hendrickson, who is also not participating in minicamp as he seeks a new contract.
Stewart’s comments reflect a broader trend in the NFL, where several first-round picks remain unsigned as teams negotiate contract terms. As of now, he is one of five first-round rookies yet to finalize their contracts. The Bengals are reportedly trying to implement new contract language that would allow them to void future guarantees, a move that has not been standard practice for recent draftees.
Key Details
- Player Profile: Shemar Stewart is a 21-year-old defensive end from Texas A&M. He recorded 65 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks in his college career.
- Contract Status: Stewart has not signed his rookie contract and has not participated in any on-field activities during the Bengals’ offseason program.
- Team Dynamics: Stewart indicated that he has received support from teammates regarding his stance on the contract dispute, emphasizing that star players in the locker room back his position.
- Other Unsigned Rookies: Alongside Stewart, four other first-round picks remain unsigned, including Travis Hunter (Jaguars), Jahdae Barron (Broncos), Maxwell Hairston (Bills), and Jihaad Campbell (Eagles).
- Hendrickson’s Situation: Trey Hendrickson, another prominent player for the Bengals, is also absent from minicamp due to his own contract negotiations, which adds to the team’s challenges as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Multiple Perspectives
Stewart’s remarks have sparked discussions about the Bengals’ negotiation tactics. He argues that the team’s insistence on including potentially punitive contract language is unnecessary and counterproductive. “I’m not asking for nothing y’all have never done before,” he stated, suggesting that the Bengals are deviating from established norms in rookie contracts.
On the other hand, the Bengals’ front office may view these negotiations as a necessary step to protect the team’s financial interests, particularly in a league where contracts can often be leveraged against teams. The organization’s approach could be seen as an attempt to set a new precedent in rookie contracts, which may resonate with their long-term strategy.
Analysts and fans are divided on the implications of this dispute. Some believe that Stewart’s absence from practice could hinder his development as a rookie, while others argue that his stance is justified and could lead to more favorable contract terms for future draftees.
Context & Background
Contract disputes between NFL teams and rookies are not uncommon, particularly for first-round picks who often command significant salaries. The Bengals’ situation with Stewart is particularly noteworthy given the team’s recent performance and aspirations for the upcoming season. The Bengals have been striving to improve their defensive performance, and Stewart was drafted to play a pivotal role in that effort.
The broader context includes the Bengals’ recent history of contract negotiations, which have sometimes been contentious. The team’s approach to rookie contracts may reflect a desire to avoid potential pitfalls that can arise from guaranteed money, especially in a league where player performance can be unpredictable.
Additionally, the absence of key players like Hendrickson and Stewart during minicamp raises concerns about team cohesion and preparation as the Bengals gear up for the 2025 season.
What We Don’t Know Yet
Several uncertainties remain regarding the contract negotiations between Stewart and the Bengals. It is unclear how long the dispute will last and whether it will impact Stewart’s readiness for the upcoming season. The team’s willingness to adjust their contract terms or to maintain their current stance is also unknown.
Furthermore, the potential ramifications of this situation on the Bengals’ overall performance and team dynamics are yet to be fully realized. The impact of Hendrickson’s absence, coupled with Stewart’s unsigned status, could affect the team’s defensive strategy and cohesion as they move closer to the regular season.
As the Bengals conclude their mandatory minicamp and head into the summer break, the resolution of these contract disputes will be critical for both the players involved and the team’s overall success in the 2025 NFL season.
