Shemar Stewart battles Bengals over rookie contract conditions
- Shemar Stewart left the Cincinnati Bengals' mandatory minicamp as a result of a contract dispute over a voicing clause in his rookie deal.
- Stewart, the 17th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, is adamant that he should not have different contract terms than a previous first-round pick, Amarius Mims.
- The ongoing disputes are indicative of a larger stubbornness from the Bengals' front office that could affect team readiness for the upcoming season.
The Cincinnati Bengals have encountered a notable contract dispute with their first-round draft pick, Shemar Stewart, who left the mandatory minicamp without being signed. This event transpired on June 13, 2025, as Stewart addressed issues regarding a contentious clause in his rookie contract that the Bengals aimed to amend. This clause deals specifically with the potential voiding of guarantees in future years of his four-year deal, a shift in standard practices that Stewart opposes. Initially drafted 17th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, Stewart expressed strong conviction regarding his stance, indicating that he believed he should not face differing contract terms compared to Amarius Mims, the Bengals' first-round pick from the previous year who did not have such language in his contract. This situation reflects an ongoing battle over the terms of first-round contracts in the NFL, underscoring the stubbornness exhibited by the Bengals' front office in negotiations. While some reports suggested Stewart's departure from minicamp was motivated by a desire not to disturb teammates, his ongoing absence from mandatory practices has raised questions about the team's preparation for the upcoming season. The Bengals are dealing with multiple contract issues, as other players, like defensive end Trey Hendrickson, have also faced challenges regarding their deals, illustrating a broader communication and negotiation breakdown within the organization. Despite the tensions between Stewart and the Bengals, he remains hopeful about his future with the team and has been actively involved with meetings and studying playbooks. As he navigates this contentious situation, Stewart has made clear he harbors no ill feelings toward the franchise itself, but he is determined to uphold what he believes to be his right in contract negotiations. The outcome of this dispute may have significant implications not only for Stewart's career trajectory but also for the Bengals' approach to player contracts moving forward.