The Cincinnati Bengals and Shemar Stewart’s contract dispute has gotten to the subsequent stage.
The rookie defensive finish, who was the No. 17 total choose within the 2025 NFL Draft, didn’t take part within the first day of necessary minicamp.
Now, he’s reportedly not even there.
“Cincinnati’s unsigned first-round draft choose Shemar Stewart now has left necessary minicamp, per supply. Stewart had been attending staff actions, however and not using a signed contract and with the Bengals asking for sure clauses, not,” ESPN insider Adam Schefter wrote on X.
Cincinnati’s unsigned first-round draft choose Shemar Stewart now has left necessary minicamp, per supply. Stewart had been attending staff actions, however and not using a signed contract and with the Bengals asking for sure clauses, not. pic.twitter.com/qeo492Z6As
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 12, 2025
Stewart has but to observe with the staff, and on condition that he’s technically not below contract, he’s not in breach of any settlement.
The Bengals reportedly have included new language that might enable them to void ensures in any 12 months of the deal.
They’re reportedly making an attempt to set a precedent beginning with this rookie class, and whereas different NFL groups have related clauses, they provide larger signing bonuses and extra money upfront.
Stewart is unwilling to budge and received’t play for the Bengals till the deadlock will get solved.
He desires to signal a deal much like their earlier two first-round picks, offensive sort out Amarius Mims and defensive finish Myles Murphy.
So as to add insult to harm, celebrity defensive Trey Hendrickson isn’t taking part, both, as he appears to be like for a brand new contract.
He’s known as out the staff publicly for weeks over his state of affairs.
After being one of many finalists for Defensive Participant of the 12 months and main the NFL in sacks final season, the Bengals’ already shaky protection would take an enormous hit if he decides to carry out.
NEXT: Joe Burrow Had Telling Remark About Trey Hendrickson’s Contract Scenario