Rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart and the Cincinnati Bengals are in a well-documented contract stalemate – and a resolution doesn’t appear to be in sight.
The Bengals and Stewart’s team discussed the rookie’s contract details last week but no progress was made, a person familiar with the situation told USA TODAY Sports. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter. The two sides haven’t spoken since.
The Bengals are attempting to change the language in the rookie’s contracts to allow the team to void future guarantees. Stewart’s representation is asking for his contract language to look the same as previous Cincinnati first-round picks.
Neither side has yet to budge.
Stewart left Cincinnati’s mandatory minicamp without participating due to the contract dispute. His participation in training camp is in jeopardy without a signed contract.
The Bengals selected Stewart No. 17 overall in the 2025 draft. Stewart and Denver Broncos cornerback Jahdae Barron are the only two remaining first-round picks left unsigned.
Bengals rookies are scheduled to report to training camp on July 19.
Stewart’s contract impasse comes at the same time that the Bengals are trying to reach an extension with defensive end Trey Hendrickson. Hendrickson and the Bengals reportedly resumed contract negotiations last month after he had previously requested a trade. Hendrickson, who led the NFL with 17.5 sacks last season, is in the final year of his deal. He set to earn $15.8 million in base salary this season. Hendrickson’s stated that he won’t play under his current deal.
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