Bengals Rookie Shemar Stewart's Contract Holdout: What We Know

David

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Post on Jun 13, 2025

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Bengals Rookie Shemar Stewart's Contract Holdout: What We Know

The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a familiar offseason challenge: a contract holdout. This time, it's rookie defensive tackle Shemar Stewart, a promising fourth-round pick from the 2023 NFL Draft, who's reportedly absent from the team's mandatory minicamp. While the specifics remain shrouded in some secrecy, several factors point to the reasons behind this standoff and what we can expect moving forward.

Understanding the Rookie Contract Landscape:

NFL rookie contracts are largely determined by the draft slot. While the specifics are negotiated, the overall framework is quite rigid, leaving less room for significant haggling compared to veteran contracts. Stewart, a fourth-round pick, is likely negotiating the guaranteed money and potential incentives within that pre-determined structure. This differs significantly from the high-stakes negotiations often seen with first-round picks who hold more leverage due to their significantly higher guaranteed salaries. [Link to article about NFL rookie contract structures]

Shemar Stewart's Potential Leverage:

Despite being a fourth-round pick, Stewart’s potential impact on the Bengals' defensive line could give him some leverage. The team needs depth and talent at defensive tackle, and a strong showing during training camp could solidify his role on the team. Holding out is a risky strategy, however, as it could potentially damage his relationship with coaches and limit his opportunities to learn the playbook and build rapport with teammates.

What We Know So Far:

• The Holdout is Confirmed: Multiple reports confirm Stewart's absence from mandatory minicamp.
• Financial Details Remain Private: Precise details regarding the contract dispute haven't been publicly released by either the Bengals or Stewart's representatives.
• No Public Statements: Neither the team nor Stewart's agent has issued official statements clarifying the situation. This lack of communication often fuels speculation.
• Potential for Resolution: Most rookie contract disputes are resolved before the regular season begins. The Bengals likely have a strong incentive to reach a mutually agreeable contract before training camp.

Analyzing the Bengals' Perspective:

The Bengals, known for their shrewd management, are unlikely to drastically overpay a fourth-round pick. They likely have a firm offer in place that aligns with their established salary structure for players of Stewart's draft position. However, understanding Stewart's potential and the team's needs at defensive tackle, they might be willing to negotiate within a reasonable range to avoid a prolonged holdout.

What Happens Next?

The coming weeks will be crucial. The Bengals will likely intensify negotiations with Stewart’s representation to find common ground. A resolution before training camp is the most likely outcome. Failure to reach an agreement could lead to Stewart missing valuable practice time, potentially hindering his development and his chances of making the final 53-man roster.

Conclusion:

While the details of Shemar Stewart's contract holdout remain somewhat unclear, the situation highlights the complexities of NFL rookie contracts. The Bengals’ approach, Stewart’s potential, and the team's need for defensive depth will ultimately shape the outcome. Keep an eye on further updates as this story develops. We'll be providing updates as soon as more information becomes available. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!