Shemar Stewart Bengals Contract Dispute: Updates & Prediction
- CINCINNATI -- Rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart's absence from Cincinnati Bengals offseason workouts stems from a contract disagreement, marking a rare impasse in an era of slotted rookie...
- the primary sticking point is language concerning the voiding of guaranteed money in future years. A source familiar with the negotiations said that the Bengals want to include...
- This situation is the most notable rookie holdout since Joey Bosa's 2016 standoff with the Chargers.
Shemar Stewart’s contract dispute with the Bengals has escalated, with the rookie’s absence from offseason workouts stemming from disagreements over contract language concerning guaranteed money. News Directory 3 has learned the Bengals seek clauses permitting them to void guarantees if Stewart faces suspension, a move drawing attention across the NFL.This mirrors the rare holdout territory last seen with Joey bosa in 2016.The primary keyword—”Shemar Stewart Bengals”—is front and center. Simultaneously occurring, secondary keyword “contract dispute” highlights the central conflict. While the Bengals believe their offer aligns with standard rookie deals, Stewart’s camp perceives a new precedent being set. With potential outcomes ranging from a holdout to re-entering the 2026 draft, team optimism remains strained by the unresolved situation.Discover what’s next for Stewart and the Bengals as training camp looms.
Shemar Stewart’s Contract Dispute with Bengals
Table of Contents
CINCINNATI — Rookie defensive end Shemar Stewart’s absence from Cincinnati Bengals offseason workouts stems from a contract disagreement, marking a rare impasse in an era of slotted rookie deals.Stewart, the Bengals’ top pick, left minicamp due to the dispute.
the primary sticking point is language concerning the voiding of guaranteed money in future years. A source familiar with the negotiations said that the Bengals want to include language that woudl allow them to void guarantees if Stewart is suspended, even for on-field infractions.
This situation is the most notable rookie holdout since Joey Bosa‘s 2016 standoff with the Chargers.
League-Wide Implications
The Bengals’ approach is drawing attention around the NFL. Cincinnati is also dealing with Trey Hendrickson‘s desire for a new contract after leading the league in sacks. The Falcons signed Jessie Bates III after he departed Cincinnati in March 2023 due to contract disagreements.
“They are comfortable with the uncomfortable,” one agent said, noting the Bengals’ firm stance in negotiations. Stewart’s agent, Zac Hiller, appears equally resolute. While a holdout risks hindering Stewart’s development, some believe cooler heads will prevail as training camp approaches.
Bengals’ Perspective
The Bengals believe their contract offer aligns with standard rookie deals, examining similar language in other NFL rookie contracts.However, Stewart’s camp feels Cincinnati is attempting to establish a new precedent regarding void language and guaranteed money with this draft class.
Linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr., Cincinnati’s second-round pick, has signed his participation waiver and participated in mandatory minicamp, unlike Stewart.
“I don’t want nothing more than what I deserve,” Stewart said before leaving camp. “Just give me what y’all be giving to everybody else.”
Potential Outcomes
The Bengals retain Stewart’s rights, but the collective bargaining agreement outlines several possibilities. If Stewart isn’t signed by Aug. 5, the Bengals cannot trade him.If he remains unsigned by Nov. 11, he cannot play this season.
Should Stewart sit out the entire season without signing, he could re-enter the 2026 draft, but the Bengals would be ineligible to select him. Attempting a return to college or playing in another professional league would still leave his rights with Cincinnati.
Team Optimism
Bengals coach Zac Taylor said he has had “positive conversations” with Stewart and remains optimistic about his future. He likened Stewart’s absence to the 2020 offseason, which was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bengals center Ted Karras, also a vice president for the NFLPA, understands Stewart’s stance on guaranteed money. “We always don’t want language and contracts that are going to be negative to players as far as guaranteed money,” Karras said.