Shemar Stewart Misses First NFL Practice Amid Contract Dispute
CINCINNATI, OH — Former Texas A&M standout and Cincinnati Bengals first-round pick Shemar Stewart was noticeably absent from the team’s first rookie minicamp practice, as contract negotiations remain unresolved. Stewart, selected 17th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, has yet to sign his rookie deal, citing disagreements over financial terms and injury protection clauses.
Although rookie contracts are largely standardized under the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement, certain aspects — such as the structure of signing bonuses and injury guarantees — are still negotiable. Stewart and his representatives are reportedly at odds with the Bengals over the payment schedule of his signing bonus and the level of protection offered in the event of a preseason injury.
One key sticking point involves the training camp roster bonus, which in Stewart’s case appears to be lower than what players in similar draft positions received in previous years. In addition, Stewart is said to be pushing for stronger injury guarantees, which would ensure financial security should he suffer an early-career injury.
Despite sitting out of on-field activities, Stewart has stayed involved with the team, attending meetings and walkthroughs while continuing to learn the Bengals’ defensive playbook. The 6-foot-4, 275-pound defensive lineman has been vocal about his desire to be on the field.
“I hate being on the sideline just watching,” Stewart said in a brief interview. “It’s tough, especially on the first day. I want to be out there with my guys, but I’ve got to look out for myself too.”
Stewart isn’t alone in his contract holdout. Second-round pick Demetrius Knight Jr. is also holding out from field participation due to similar concerns over contract terms. As of now, the two are the only rookies in the NFL not practicing because of unsigned deals.
The Bengals’ front office has faced scrutiny in recent years for a conservative approach to rookie contracts. Critics argue that the organization’s reluctance to offer stronger injury protections and flexible bonus structures is putting them at a disadvantage, especially when it comes to building early rapport with their top draft picks.
For Cincinnati, resolving the contract standoff with Stewart is a top priority. As a dominant force on the defensive line at Texas A&M, Stewart brings rare size, speed, and power to a Bengals defense looking to reload for a deep playoff run. Head coach Zac Taylor and the front office have expressed optimism that a deal will be reached in time for the next phase of offseason training.
With training camp approaching and expectations high for Stewart’s rookie season, both sides are under pressure to find common ground. Once the deal is finalized, Stewart is expected to be a major contributor on defense — but until then, fans and teammates alike await his official NFL debut.
For now, Shemar Stewart remains a Bengal in waiting — eager to suit up, but standing firm in a business decision that could shape the start of his professional career.
