The Bengals certainly seem to thrive on drama, especially when it comes to player contracts.
Shemar Stewart has left the team’s mandatory minicamp due to ongoing disagreements over the specifics of his contract, as reported by ESPN.
The franchise is looking to set a “new precedent” with contract terms that could allow them to void future guarantees for new players, according to Cincinnati Enquirer.
Cincinnati has previously managed holdouts, including that of standout pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, after some earlier issues with receivers Ja’marr Chase and Tee Higgins before they eventually got new deals.
The NFL’s rookie pay structure is meant to streamline negotiations, featuring a descending pay scale that benefits players picked higher than those selected later.
This situation, however, is escalating, and the specific figures seem less important now. Stewart is aiming for a contract that mirrors the terms of recent first-round picks, like offensive tackle Amalius Mim and defensive end Miles Murphy.
Instead, it seems the team wants to implement changes to that standard.
“I’m absolutely correct,” Stewart asserted. “I’m not asking for anything unprecedented. I just want to win the argument, rather than just focusing on winning games.”
Stewart is one of five first-round picks still without a contract. He mentioned having some sporadic discussions with coach Zach Taylor, but it appears that owner Mike Brown plays a key role in finalizing the contract.
“I’ve spent most of my life doing this, and it’s disappointing to hit a wall over something that should be simple to resolve,” he shared with reporters.
The Bengals might be playing a risky game with both Hendrickson and Stewart, considering their defense struggled significantly last season.
Cincinnati can score well, averaging 25.5 points per game, yet they suffered multiple losses that kept them from playoff contention.
Stewart is looking to improve himself, noting that he may require more development after managing just 4.5 sacks in three years at Texas A&M.
“That time on the field is crucial,” he said regarding his missed practices. “Your body needs to be prepared for the physical demands of NFL play. Even having come from the SEC, nothing compares to the rigors of the NFL.”
“I thought I’d be ready to hit the field by now, and that’s really what I had in mind.”
