Bengals Rookie Shemar Stewart Remains Unsigned, Skips Training Camp

David

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Post on Jul 21, 2025

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Bengals Rookie Shemar Stewart Remains Unsigned, Skips Training Camp: A Contract Standoff Brewing?

The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a potential headache as their highly touted rookie defensive lineman, Shemar Stewart, remains unsigned and absent from training camp. This unexpected development raises questions about the potential for a protracted contract dispute and the impact it could have on the team's upcoming season. Stewart, a fourth-round pick out of Florida, was expected to contribute immediately to a Bengals defensive line looking to bolster its depth. His absence casts a shadow over the team's preparations.

The Silence Speaks Volumes

While neither the Bengals organization nor Stewart's representatives have publicly commented on the specifics of the contract negotiations, the rookie's absence from training camp speaks volumes. The silence fuels speculation regarding the sticking points in the negotiations. Are the disagreements centered around guaranteed money, signing bonuses, or the overall structure of the contract? Only time will tell.

Impact on the Bengals' Defensive Line

Stewart's absence is particularly noteworthy given the Bengals' defensive line needs. The team is striving to improve its run defense, and Stewart's size and athleticism were seen as valuable assets in achieving that goal. His missing training camp significantly impacts the team's ability to properly evaluate and integrate him into the defensive scheme. Without the benefit of on-field practice and coaching, his readiness for the regular season remains uncertain. This situation creates added pressure on other defensive linemen to step up and fill the void left by Stewart's absence.

Contract Negotiations: A Common NFL Occurrence

While the situation is concerning for Bengals fans, unsigned rookies skipping training camp isn't unprecedented in the NFL. Contract negotiations are often complex, involving intricate details and varying interpretations of contract clauses. Teams and player agents frequently engage in a strategic dance, attempting to secure the most favorable terms for their respective clients. However, prolonged standoffs can impact team cohesion and a player's development.

What Happens Next?

The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the resolution of this situation. Will the Bengals and Stewart's representatives reach a compromise? Will Stewart eventually sign and join the team? Or will this contract dispute drag on, potentially impacting his rookie season? The Bengals will undoubtedly hope for a swift resolution, ensuring Stewart can contribute to their playoff aspirations. This situation serves as a reminder of the often-complex dynamics of NFL contract negotiations and the impact they can have on both players and teams.

Keywords: Shemar Stewart, Cincinnati Bengals, NFL, training camp, unsigned rookie, contract negotiations, defensive line, NFL draft, fourth-round pick, Florida Gators, football news, sports news

Related Articles: (These would link to other relevant articles on your site – examples only)

• [Link to an article about Bengals training camp] Bengals Training Camp: A Look at Key Battles
• [Link to an article about other NFL contract disputes] NFL Contract Disputes: A Look at Recent Standoffs

Call to Action (subtle): Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as we continue to follow the situation closely.