Discontent Grows Between Bengals and Shemmer Stewart

The tension between the Cincinnati Bengals and their first-round draft pick, Shemmer Stewart, has intensified recently. Reports indicate that Stewart left the final day of mandatory mini-camp, largely due to his unpaid rookie contract.

He has stated that his departure was not meant to cause any disruption for his teammates who were still participating. It seems, perhaps, it’s more about the confusion surrounding his contract than anything else.

Despite this, many in the football community are puzzled by Stewart’s contract situation, which is keeping him off the field with his fellow teammates.

Stewart, picked 17th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, has publicly voiced his frustration about not being on the field during the Bengals’ mini-camp practices. “I’m 100% correct,” he told reporters. “I’m not asking for anything unusual, but it seems some just want to win the disagreement rather than win games.”

The Bengals are apparently seeking changes to how they finalize Stewart’s rookie contract, which could affect future guarantees for the organization. Stewart believes the contractual language is appropriate, referencing last year’s first-round pick, Amarius Mims, whose contract didn’t include the same clauses.

Stewart, who holds a higher draft position than Mims, feels firmly justified in his stance regarding his contract. Bengals head coach Zach Taylor mentioned that he had positive communication with Stewart before he decided to leave camp.

Notably, there are other players like Tray Hendrickson, dealing with their own contract dilemmas within the team. Taylor shared his perspective on Stewart’s situation, hinting at the broader contract issues the team is facing.

Stewart reflected, “There’s a first time for everything. Every year you pick up something new in this role. We keep moving forward, and when I get on the field, it’ll be a game-changer for us.”

Prior to his exit, Stewart attended a team meeting and reviewed his playbook. However, he acknowledges that field experience is crucial. “Being prepared for football, especially after college, is key. The NFL is a different level, even if I had a tough background in the SEC,” he added.

Stewart was deemed somewhat raw when he left Texas A&M, known for his athletic gifts but still needing to refine the technical skills required for an outside linebacker.

He remains optimistic about his future in Cincinnati. “I’m still new here, and we have a long road ahead,” he said, indicating he holds no resentment towards the franchise.