Shemar Stewart Leaves Bengals Minicamp Due To Contract Standoff

David

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Post on Jun 14, 2025

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Shemar Stewart Skips Bengals Minicamp Amidst Contract Dispute: What's Next for the Young Defensive End?

The Cincinnati Bengals' mandatory minicamp saw a notable absence: Shemar Stewart, the promising defensive end drafted in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. His absence isn't due to injury, but rather a contract standoff with the team, adding another layer of intrigue to the Bengals' offseason. This situation highlights the complexities of rookie contracts and the ongoing negotiations between NFL teams and their newly drafted players.

The news broke late Tuesday, sending ripples through Bengals Nation and sparking intense speculation online. While neither the team nor Stewart's representatives have publicly commented on the specifics of the disagreement, sources close to the situation suggest a disagreement over contract details. This isn't entirely unusual; contract negotiations between NFL teams and rookies often involve intricate details and sometimes lead to temporary standoffs. However, Stewart's absence from minicamp underscores the seriousness of the situation.

Understanding the Rookie Contract Process:

The NFL's collective bargaining agreement (CBA) dictates a structured system for rookie contracts, particularly for players selected in the later rounds like Stewart. While the specifics vary based on draft position and other factors, these contracts typically include guaranteed money, signing bonuses, and various roster bonuses tied to performance and playing time. Disagreements often arise over the amount of guaranteed money or the structure of incentives.

• Guaranteed Money: This is a crucial point of contention. Players want to secure as much guaranteed money as possible, providing financial security even if their performance doesn't meet expectations. Teams, conversely, prefer to limit guaranteed money to mitigate risk.

• Incentive Structure: The structure of performance-based incentives is another area where negotiations can get tricky. Players and their agents work to ensure the incentives are achievable and reflect the player's projected contribution.

What Happens Next for Shemar Stewart?

While the situation remains unresolved, several scenarios are possible:

• Negotiated Settlement: Both sides are likely working towards a negotiated settlement. A compromise on the contract terms could see Stewart return to the team before training camp.

• Holding Out into Training Camp: If negotiations fail, Stewart could choose to hold out of training camp, a more significant move that would carry further consequences.

• Long-Term Implications: A prolonged standoff could affect Stewart's development and his relationship with the Bengals' coaching staff. It could also impact his chances of making the 53-man roster.

The Importance of Minicamp:

Minicamp provides valuable time for rookies to learn the playbook, build chemistry with teammates, and acclimate to the professional level. Stewart's absence means he's missing crucial on-field instruction and team-building activities. This could potentially set him back as he competes for a roster spot.

The situation with Shemar Stewart serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics within the NFL, even for players selected in later rounds. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the resolution of this contract dispute and its impact on Stewart's future with the Cincinnati Bengals. We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for further developments.