Cincinnati Bengals rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart left the team’s mandatory minicamp on Thursday due to an unresolved contract dispute. The first-round draft pick has not participated in any offseason workouts.
According to sources, the disagreement revolves around the interpretation of specific contract language, particularly clauses that could impact Stewart’s guaranteed money. This dispute has raised concerns about the rookie’s preparedness heading into the season and his relationship with the organization.
Taylor Stresses Rookie Involvement, Addresses Stewart’s Comments and Locker Room Harmony Concerns
Head coach Zac Taylor addressed the media following the conclusion of minicamp, confirming Stewart’s absence and stating the team chose to focus on the players present. Taylor noted that while Stewart has not been on the field, he has remained involved by attending meetings and staying positive behind the scenes.
Despite the situation, Taylor emphasized the importance of rookies getting reps on the field and acknowledged that contract disputes are an unfortunate but sometimes unavoidable part of NFL careers.
Bengals Face Defensive Setback as Contract Disputes Sideline Shemar Stewart and Trey HendricksonThe situation was further complicated by Stewart’s public comments earlier in the week. The former Texas A&M standout asserted that his contract requests were reasonable and in line with past Bengals draft picks. He criticized the team for prioritizing winning an argument over winning games.
Coach Taylor responded diplomatically, mentioning that he had good communication with Stewart after the remarks and stressing the need to protect the locker room’s unity while understanding players’ frustrations.
Contract Disputes Leave Bengals Without Key Pass Rushers During Critical Preparation Period
Stewart is not the only Bengals player dealing with a contract issue. Veteran defensive end Trey Hendrickson also skipped the entire minicamp, seeking a long-term extension rather than playing the final year of his current deal.
His absence, combined with Stewart’s situation, leaves the Bengals without two of their top pass rushers at a critical juncture in team preparation. These disputes pose a potential challenge for the team’s defense as training camp approaches.
Despite the contract-related absences, team leaders like center Ted Karras expressed support for both Stewart and Hendrickson. Karras emphasized that there is no resentment among teammates and that players understand the importance of protecting their financial futures.
He voiced hope that both sides would find resolutions soon to avoid distractions going into summer and to maintain the positive momentum from a productive spring. The overall sentiment within the locker room remains one of unity and professionalism.
