Bengals' Shemar Stewart Skips Minicamp Over Unresolved Contract

David

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Post on Jun 14, 2025

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Bengals' Shemar Stewart Skips Minicamp Amidst Contract Impasse

Cincinnati Bengals' fifth-round draft pick, defensive tackle Shemar Stewart, is noticeably absent from the team's mandatory minicamp, highlighting an ongoing contract dispute. The situation underscores the complexities of NFL rookie contracts and the sometimes-fraught negotiations between players and teams. While the Bengals remain optimistic about a resolution, Stewart's absence raises questions about his readiness for training camp and the upcoming season.

The news broke earlier this week, sending ripples through Bengals Nation and sparking speculation across NFL circles. Stewart, a promising young defensive lineman out of Florida, was expected to compete for a roster spot and potentially contribute immediately. His absence, therefore, is a significant development for the Bengals' defensive line depth chart.

Why is Shemar Stewart Skipping Minicamp?

The primary reason behind Stewart's absence is the unresolved contract negotiations. While the specifics remain undisclosed, it's understood that the disagreement centers on the terms of his rookie contract. These contracts, while seemingly standard, often involve intricate details regarding signing bonuses, guaranteed money, and incentives, all of which can become points of contention. The NFLPA (National Football League Players Association) plays a crucial role in guiding players through these negotiations.

This isn't an uncommon situation in the NFL. Many rookie players, especially those drafted later in the rounds, find themselves navigating complex contract negotiations. Sometimes, these negotiations can drag on, leading to players missing voluntary or mandatory minicamps. The hope is usually that an agreement can be reached before training camp begins.

Impact on the Bengals' Defensive Line

Stewart's absence from minicamp presents a challenge for the Bengals' coaching staff. Minicamp provides valuable time for players to learn the playbook, build chemistry with teammates, and acclimate to the team's systems. Missing this crucial phase could potentially hinder Stewart's development and integration into the team. The Bengals will need to assess the situation and determine how to best support Stewart's development once the contract is finalized. This might involve extra coaching sessions or individualized training plans.

Looking Ahead: Will Stewart Be Ready for Training Camp?

The Bengals have remained relatively tight-lipped about the situation, offering only general statements about their hope for a swift resolution. However, the team's actions suggest a cautious optimism. The fact that they haven't publicly criticized Stewart indicates a willingness to find common ground. Nevertheless, the pressure is mounting. The closer training camp gets, the greater the risk that Stewart's absence will impact his readiness for the season. A successful negotiation will ensure his participation and integration into the Bengals’ plans. His progress will be closely monitored by the team and NFL fans alike.

Related Articles:

• [Link to article about other Bengals' contract negotiations]
• [Link to article about rookie contract holdouts in the NFL]

Conclusion: Shemar Stewart's absence from Bengals minicamp highlights the importance of rookie contract negotiations in the NFL. While the situation remains unresolved, both the Bengals and Stewart will likely prioritize finding a mutually beneficial agreement before the start of training camp. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining Stewart’s future with the Bengals and his potential impact on their upcoming season.